Racing Point have been handed another reprimand by the stewards over their brake duct design after the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix.
On Friday, the Silverstone-based team was given a 15-point deduction and a 400k Euros fine after it was decided the rear brake ducts on their 2020 car breached the regulations on listed parts because they had been designed predominantly by Mercedes.
However, the FIA permitted Racing Point to continue using the ducts as they believed it would be unrealistic to require the team to develop their own new ones because of the data the team already has from Mercedes and because they are also legal from a technical standpoint.
As a result, they were handed the one penalty for the Styrian Grand Prix, when Renault first protested their design, and will now receive reprimands at every race for their continued use.
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The matter though is far from resolved with five teams, including Racing Point, stating their intention to appeal the stewards’ verdict.
In the case of Ferrari, McLaren, Williams and Renault they are all seeking a harsher punishment, while Racing Point wants the original decision overturned.
And on Sunday, team owner Lawrence Stroll blasted the controversy surrounding their 2020 car.
“I do not often speak publicly, however, I am extremely angry at any suggestion we have been underhand or have cheated – particularly those comments coming from our competitors,” he said.
“I have never cheated at anything in my life. These accusations are completely unacceptable and not true. My integrity – and that of my team – are beyond question.
“Everyone at Racing Point was shocked and disappointed by the FIA ruling and firmly maintain our innocence.
“This team, under various names, has competed in Formula 1 for over 30 years and today employs 500 people. We’ve always been a constructor and will continue to be so in the future,” the Canadian added.
“Throughout those 30 years, this team has been an underdog, punching well above its weight with a fantastic group of people. Between 2016 and 2018, this was the fourth-best team on the grid, operating on the smallest budget, and scoring regular podiums.
“Emerging from administration with stability and fresh investment, this team’s competitive form should not be a surprise to anybody. The team can finally realise its potential and should be celebrated for its strong performance,” he concluded.
