In the verdict published this morning, the FIA stewards who heard the case decreed that Racing Point was guilty of breaking the rules on listed parts by using the rear brake duct design of the 2019 Mercedes W10 on its 2020 car. The team was docked 15 constructors’ championship points and fined €400,000 in respect of the Styrian GP – where the first protest was lodged by Renault – and also given two reprimands in relation to the later protests at the Hungarian and British GPs.
The verdict also made it clear that Racing Point is not expected to change its brake duct design, and can continue to use the current parts for the rest of the year.
Normally a decision has to be appealed within an hour of any decision being issued, but the FIA has made an exception due to the complexity of the case, and left a 24-hour window in which to lodge a notice of intent to appeal.
Scuderia Ferrari Team Principal Mattia Binotto said they are still reviewing the document, they still have 24 hours to appeal it: “We have to be very careful and see what our next step will be.”
Mattia Binotto was asked if a team can copy a car based on photos: “I think it’s likely impossible. It never happened in the history of F1…I don’t think the verdict is sufficient. It’s also only about the brake ducts and not the entire concept.”
The Ferrari boss also added that this is just the tip of the iceberg.
Mattia Binotto confirms again that they are ready to sign the new Concorde Agreement: “Our role in the sport has been recognized.”
Leave a Reply