Renault won't appeal Japanese GP disqualification

Renault

Renault won't appeal Japanese GP disqualification

The team says it would be a waste of time.

Matthew Scott

Thursday 24 October 2019 16:35 Updated: 17:04

Renault have opted not to appeal against Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg's disqualification from the Japanese Grand Prix.

Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg had sixth and 10th-place finishes respectively taken away from them.

It was alleged that Renault were using a "pre-set, automated brake bias system", although the FIA found that the system was not tuned to a determined distance and was therefore not against technical regulations.

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However, Renault were not out of trouble, as the sporting regs state that drivers must drive the car unaided and the system in place had meant both Ricciardo and Hulkenberg did not have to make the same adjustments as all other 18 of their rivals. The French team had to confirm any intention to appeal by Thursday morning at the Mexican GP, but believe it would be a waste of time.

A statement read: "We regret the Stewards' decision and, in particular, the severity of the sanction applied. In our opinion, the penalty is not proportionate to any benefit the drivers derived, especially when used within the context of a system confirmed fully legal and innovative. It is also inconsistent with previous sanctions for similar breaches, as acknowledged by the Stewards in their decision, but expressed without further argumentation.

"However, since we have no new evidence to bring other than that already produced to demonstrate the legality of our system, we do not wish to invest further time and effort in a sterile debate in front of the International Court of Appeal concerning the subjective appreciation, and therefore sanction, related to an aid that reduces the driver workload without enhancing the performance of the car.

"We have therefore decided not to appeal the Stewards' decision.

"Formula One will always be an arena for the relentless search for the slightest possible opportunities for competitive advantage. It is what we have always done and will continue to do, albeit with stronger internal processes before innovative solutions are brought on track."