Shortly after the Sprint Qualifying session of the Chinese Grand Prix, an FIA notice puts a team in trouble: the Federation’s statement highlights a non-compliance by Williams regarding flexible wings. The irregularity was spotted by FIA delegate Jo Bauer.
While Lewis Hamilton celebrates his first (Sprint) pole position with Ferrari, the FIA issues a notice that could spell trouble for James Vowles’ Williams team. The British outfit has allegedly failed to comply with the Federation’s regulations on flexible wings, and the FIA may take action during the Chinese GP weekend.
Flexible wings, FIA statement: Williams now at risk
Williams has come under FIA scrutiny during the Chinese GP for failing to comply with Technical Directive TD034L on flexible wings. Jo Bauer, the Federation’s delegate, has reported the Grove-based team’s violation to the stewards.
“The Williams team did not provide the video files from its front and rear onboard cameras within one hour after the end of FP1,” reads the FIA statement. Teams are required to equip their cars with cameras to monitor wing flexibility and must submit their footage to the Federation within an hour after the session—in this case, Free Practice 1. Williams did not follow this directive, prompting an FIA investigation.
As described in Jo Bauer’s note, this requirement is outlined in the “Additional Diagnostics” section of Technical Directive TD034L. As a result, Williams is not in compliance with the FIA’s Technical Directive on flexible wings, and the Federation is investigating.
FIA summons Williams
Following Jo Bauer’s report, the FIA has officially summoned Williams in Shanghai. Representatives of the British team must appear before the Federation’s stewards at 8:30 AM on Saturday, March 22.
The Williams representatives will provide their explanations for the team’s failure to comply at 1:30 AM Central European Standard Time.
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