Formula 1 is once again in turmoil. On the sidelines of the Singapore Grand Prix, rumor has it that the Red Bull team has exceeded the spending limit in force for the 2021 season.
For this 2022 season, the maximum budget value was set at 140 million but was later increased by 3.1 percent due to inflation. And two teams seem to have broken the rules for 2021: Red Bull, team of world champion Max Verstappen, and Aston Martin.
The problem? There is no clearly defined catalog of penalties for such offences. Depending on the amount spent without authorization, the penalties vary between a fine and withdrawal of points. International Federation (FIA) officials are due to announce the results of their check on the cost caps next week.
It also remains to be determined whether the sanctions would apply to the team or also to the drivers. It is also possible that the difference between the authorized expenditure and the actual expenditure will be deducted next season from the prescribed cost ceiling, which will then amount to 135 million dollars.
afp/pza