Formula One news

FIA underlines reasons for McLaren outcome

The FIA has explained why it elected to hand the McLaren team with a suspended three-race ban for 'liegate' rather than putting the penalty to immediate effect. In the event of no similar incident taking place over the course of a year, the punishment will be declared dull and void - due mainly to the manner in which the team presented itself during Wednesday's hearing in Paris.

The governing body reached its decision on the matter earlier this week after team manager Dave Ryan lied to Australian Grand Prix race stewards at the start of the season, following an on-track matter involving driver Lewis Hamilton.

In an official round-up of the hearing released on Friday, the governing body explained that there were a number of factors which swayed its opinions to lead to the suspension of the ban; notably these were the 'open' and 'honest' way in which team principal Martin Whitmarsh presented the information and the fact that the culture of the team has since changed (chiefly the dismissal of Ryan), a fact which he expressed clearly.

Additionally, the end of the statement featured a reminder to the team that it may, if it wishes to do so, appeal the decisions made although - after many expected at least a fine for the Surrey outfit - this is highly unlikely.

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