Formula One news
Mosley upbeat after McLaren hearing
29 April 2009 / PhotosA positive Max Mosley was keen to put the 'liegate' issue behind and move on following a successful meeting between the FIA and McLaren on Wednesday. The team was handed with a suspended three-race ban for their part in the saga, although Mosley was quick to express that the relationship between the two parties has vastly improved, with an exciting season looking to continue.
"We think it's entirely fair," FIA president Mosley said to the BBC on leaving the hearing. "They've demonstrated there's a complete culture change, different to what it was, and in those circumstances we think it's best to put the whole thing behind us which is what we've done. So unless there's something similar in the future, that's the end of the matter."
 |
| The media learn of the hearing's outcome for the first time |
The suspended ban of three races will only come into affect in the event of either another case linked to today's or a fresh disrespecting of the sporting regulations between now and this time next year, although - with a fine or exclusion from the World Championship seemingly on the cards previously - some will believe the escape from the scenario was one of luck for the team.
"I don't think so, because in the end there were decisions taken by people who are no longer involved," Mosley replied, raising questions over whether the departure from the team of Ron Dennis, as well as Dave Ryan, is directly linked to the issue. "I think, that being the case, it would have been unfair to go on with the matter. They did suffer - they lost all their points from Australia - so I think we've done enough and I think it's fair."
With McLaren run by a new team principal this year, Mosley feels that relations between the two parties are now greatly improving. "Very much so," he confirmed. "Martin Whitmarsh made a very good impression; he's obviously absolutely straightforward and wants to work with us - we're all trying to do the same thing, which is make the championship successful and hope that the best team wins. I think Martin fully understands that, and the World Council reacted accordingly."
 |
| Mosley is not writing off Hamilton for the drivers' championship |
The FIA President then talked briefly about the prospects of McLaren's World Champion, Lewis Hamilton, retaining his title in 2009 and whether, with the political matters out of the way, is it still possible. "Yes and it may not be a dream," Mosley responded. "I don't underestimate the speed with which McLaren will get themselves sorted out - they're a very powerful organisation."
Mosley concluded by comparing the results of this week's hearing with those of the 'spygate' matter in 2007, in which Mike Coughlan and Nigel Stepney transferred data from Ferrari to McLaren. Mosley admitted that, had McLaren apologised then in the way as with this year's case, the outcome of the matter may not have been the same. "It would have, I think, saved everybody - including McLaren - a lot of time, trouble and money," he said. "This time, I think they got the message and I think they've done a very good job."
more news
- 28 Nov.
- 27 Nov.
- 26 Nov.
- 25 Nov.
- 24 Nov.
- 23 Nov.
Homepage
Jerez