Case closed over 'copying' saga as Ferrari also withdraw appeal

Ferrari

Case closed over 'copying' saga as Ferrari also withdraw appeal

Changes to the regulations have satisfied the Scuderia

Ian Parkes

Sunday 6 September 2020 18:12

The long-running copying saga is now finally over as Ferrari has also chosen to withdraw its appeal.

The team's decision closes the case on the appeal process against the rear brake ducts on this season's Racing Point RP20.

Via a statement, Ferrari said: "Scuderia Ferrari Mission Winnow announces that it has notified the International Court of Appeal of its decision to withdraw the appeal filed. "In recent weeks, the collaboration between FIA, Formula 1 and the teams has produced a series of acts - amendments to the 2021 Technical and Sporting Regulations, approved by the F1 Commission and the FIA World Motor Sport Council, and Technical Directives - which clarify the responsibilities of each championship participant in the design of the components of a single-seater and implement specific monitoring procedures to ensure that both the letter and the spirit of the regulations are fully respected. "Scuderia Ferrari expresses its appreciation for the timeliness with which the FIA and Formula 1 have effectively tackled a fundamental aspect of the DNA of this highly competitive sport."

Article continues under video

Earlier on Sunday, Racing Point had also withdrawn its appeal, despite owner Lawrence Stroll's vehemence of his team's innocence after it was docked 15 constructors' championship points and fined €400,000.

Renault had initially protested the brake ducts, which resulted in a stewards' hearing prior to the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix at Silverstone, and subsequent penalties.

Racing Point naturally lodged its intention to appeal the punishment, while Renault, Ferrari, Williams and McLaren all did likewise in opposition, believing the penalty was too lenient.

McLaren and Williams subsequently withdrew before the deadline to confirm an appeal, while recently Renault also pulled out of the process after gaining clarity from the FIA on the rules going forward.

The decision of Racing Point and Ferrari now means the International Court of Appeal will not be required.