Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff is urging the FIA to crack down on teams. That exceed the cost cap in F1, hoping they will be caught out through stricter procedures. The FIA found Red Bull and Aston Martin guilty of exceeding the limit in the 2021 season, but they have not disclosed the specific details of those findings yet.
In an effort to keep teams in check, the FIA is now requesting regular updates on cost cap compliance. Instead of waiting until the end of the year. The FIA has presented some teams with comprehensive questionnaires containing over 100 inquiries to prevent a repeat of the cost cap violations observed in 2021.
When asked if teams were exploiting the existing system, Toto Wolff responded affirmatively. Acknowledging the efforts made by the FIA to audit his team thoroughly. He expressed confidence that the FIA would conduct similar investigations into other teams and uncover any instances of recklessness or cheating.
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella supports Wolff’s stance, highlighting the measures implemented by the Working-based team to avoid penalties. Stella welcomes the FIA’s approach of stringent oversight and considers strong policing essential. He acknowledges the complexities in team structures, which can potentially lead to exploitations or uncertainties. McLaren has recently established McLaren Advanced Projects. An independent engineering unit separate from the F1 team, in anticipation of regulatory changes. They are collaborating with the FIA to tighten regulations and enhance policing, recognizing the cost cap as crucial for establishing a level playing field and making the sport more thrilling for fans.
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