Picture Credit: Formula 1
If the emerging reports by La G azetta Dello Sport and Auto Motor und Sport (AMuS) are to be believed, two F1 teams may have exceeded the permissible budget for the 2021 season. The teams, who are involved in transgression are said to be Red Bull and Aston Martin. The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) has warned of strict action against both teams if the claim of breach is found to be true.
Here is what the report said:
“The paddock radio reports that in the first year of the cost cap, two teams exceeded the limit of $148.6 million. One of them on a large scale. In the paddock, there are rumors that it should be Red Bull and Aston Martin. The FIA is in a bind. It is obliged to make any transgressions public. Exceeding the budget cap is a breach of the rules, like an underweight car or too much gas flow.”
Last year, the F1 introduced a budget cap of $145 million to make it a level playing field and help the sport prosper. This year, the same budget was reduced to $ 140 million. The governing body of F1 is due to submit the financial report for 2021 next week, which will make the picture clearer of any violations.
The concerned teams will get away with a fine on a violation of up to $5 million, otherwise, they might face heavy penalties and even exclusion from the Championship. The report also states that an additional five million dollars in development could be worth up to half a second on the racetrack.
Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner denied the rumours of them going over the top in terms of budget in the 2021 season. The fingers were pointed at them, as they added extra parts to see Max Verstappen win his maiden world championship in Abu Dhabi.
“We are confident in our submission,” said Horner. “There are always going to be rumours.”