McLaren’s appeal has been rejected

The FIA International Court of Appeal has rejected the request made by McLaren regarding the fuel temperature examined in the BMW and Williams cars last month during the Brazilian Grand Prix.

After a day of deliberation in London and after hearing from all parties, the FIA declared that the results of the Interlagos race will remain unchanged, confirming Kimi Räikkönen’s triumph for Ferrari.

The governing body stated in a press release that the appeal was rejected because it is inadmissible.

The International Court of Appeals was chaired by four judges, including a Czech, an American, a Greek, and a Portuguese.

The statement issued by the FIA:

« The FIA International Court of Appeal met in London on Thursday, November 15, 2007, to examine an appeal filed by the Motor Sports Association (MSA) on behalf of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes against the decision made by the race officials at the last Brazilian Grand Prix in October. »

« Following a report from the technical delegate regarding the fuel temperature pumped into car No. 9 of Nick Heidfeld, No. 10 of Robert Kubica, No. 16 of Nico Rosberg, and No. 17 of Kazuki Nakajima, allegedly more than 10 degrees Celsius below ambient temperature, the experts of the meeting gathered to examine whether a sanction should be taken. »

« After hearing the evidence, they decided not to impose a penalty, as they had enough doubt about the fuel temperature on board the cars and the actual ambient temperature. »

« After hearing the explanations of both parties and after examining the various documents and other pieces of evidence, the Court has decided that the appeal filed by Vodafone McLaren Mercedes is inadmissible. »

« The international Court of Appeal was presided over by Mr. Jan STOVICEK (Czech Republic), in his capacity as elected President, and composed of Mr. John CASSIDY (United States), Mr. Vassilis KOUSSIS (Greece), and Mr. José MACEDO (Portugal). »