F1 Debacle

Thanks to Alapan for pointing out that the full transcripts from the two hearings have been released. I still cannot get over how often the mistake is made where they redact the confidential parts, but still leave the text in the document in such a way that one can simply do a copy-paste and view all the confidential information. Yes, they this!!

You can get the transcripts here:

• 26 July hearing
• 13 September hearing

Some quotes from the redacted bits:

The whole philosophy of our car was to move the weight forward. We had managed to take some weight from the gearbox.

“They have a double-rear master cylinder with a spring, which initially delays rear braking, then increases it gradually”

He was paid around 300 000 to 400 000 pounds per annum. Is that correct?

Since I didn't get a real opportunity to discuss the ruling I'll use this post to do so.

The driver's got with no direct punishment. They will still be allowed to race in the same McLaren's for the remainder of the season and they won't be docked any points. Now I'm not 100% clued up on the situation, but the cars haven't gone through a thorough inspection and could be making use of Ferrari's IP this whole debacle is about. They will only be inspected just before the 2008 season begins. Yes, they were told they would get off free if they provided evidence, and they did, but I still feel strong against this part of the ruling since they could be driving essentially illegal cars.

The banning of McLaren from the 2007 season is going to be a massive impact to them. Not only is it an embarrassment, but I've heard the sponsors have already started backfiring. The constructors' championship is very often considered more important to the team as a whole than the drivers' and now McLaren won't even be placed. The $100 million fine is enormous! The previous record was $5 million to the Turkish organisers for doing something wrong on the podium. While you may say they have a massive budget, this is going to make a huge impact on their development next year.

I think they should never have offered the drivers full indemnity in exchange for evidence. I'm not in the position to comment on the possibility of getting hold of sufficient evidence to prove their guilt without such an offer, but just think about how much they are getting away with. I'm a Ferrari fan so I will be biased, but I think this is unacceptable. Everyone has the opportunity to cast judgment and that is mine - agree with it or not.