Mercedes Reprimanded for Conduct During F1 Practice
Giancarlo Perlas July 4, 2015
The rear of Nico Rosberg’s Silver Arrow was covered as it was being carried to the garage after experiencing gearbox problems during F1 practice. (Photo Source: Sky Sports)
Officials in Formula One called the attention of Mercedes-AMG Petronas due to its action during the first practice for the British Grand Prix. The reprimand stemmed from the cover placed at the rear of Nico Rosberg’s race car while it was being returned to the garage following gearbox issues.
According to the interview of Sky Sports with Jo Bauer, the FIA’s technical delegate, the act was in violation of the Article 27.4 of the Sporting Regulations.
The specific provisions states:
During the entire event, no screen, cover or other obstruction which in any way obscures any part of a car will be allowed at any time in the paddock, garages, pit lane or grid, unless it is clear any such covers are needed solely for mechanical reasons, which could, for example, include protecting against fire.
Bauer noted that since there was no mechanical damage in the car, there was no reason to put it under the sheets during the F1 practice.
The report claimed the rule was made because it would be too ridiculous to cover a car when spectators are there to take a look at it. However, the team is not expected to get a sporting penalty for the issue as it was only deemed as a minor mistake.
Mercedes Gets Pole Position for British GP
As of writing, Mercedes once again dominated the qualifying event at Silverstone. Lewis Hamilton snagged the pole position while Nico Rosberg came in second.
That would certainly give them another major advantage in the race this Sunday.
