Controversy intensifies in F1: McLaren and Red Bull ask the FIA to take Gasly’s podium away from him again
P’s third placePierre Gasly andn Monaco with the Alpine continues to be a topic of controversy in the paddock Formula 1. The French driver crossed the finish line in the Principality in third position but soon received a 10 second penalty for going too fast in the pit-lane. Gasly assured that it was unfair and the French team was going to fight until the end.
It seemed that Alpine’s goal had been met because The FIA rectified and on Friday of the Barcelona-Catalunya GP it was announced that Gasly’s sanction would be lifted and that, in this way, he could now celebrate his first podium on the streets of Monaco, a truly special milestone for any driver. The tests offered by the Enstone team had had their effect.
However, the case continues to drag on for another week. And this Tuesday McLaren announced that they were appealing this FIA annulment so that the Frenchman would be sanctioned again. In the case of Red Bull there was no official communication but it is information that was provided by Motorsport.com.
“We believe this case raises important issues regarding sporting fairness, regulatory coherence and the integrity of competition.
Throughout the Monaco Grand Prix weekend – and in all events – all teams acted in accordance with the established regulations and normal practices regarding the speed limit in the pit alley, as they applied at that time. Competitors adjusted their procedures accordingly and, where necessary, accepted and complied with sanctions imposed under said regulations.
In our opinion, the subsequent annulment of the sanctions creates a situation in which some competitors are disadvantaged for having acted in accordance with the rules and the decisions of the commissioners. This outcome risks generating sporting inequality and undermining confidence in the consistent application of the FIA Sporting Regulations.
Our decision to appeal is not directed against any competitor. Rather, it reflects our belief that the Championship benefits from the rules being applied consistently, transparently and fairly to all participants.” read the statement from Woking.
After the test in Catalan lands, Formula 1 now takes a break before the action resumes at the Austrian GP in two weeks. We will see if this new chapter in the controversy has another consequence or will be the final point to a decision that has become a soap opera.
