Ferrari fined, WMSC to decide on team orders
Following a bespoke incident at the German GP where Felipe Massa deliberately allowed his teammate at Ferrari, Fernando Alonso to pass him, the FIA have decided that the event is the result of team orders, which in the regulations are clearly forbidden.
While hearing Stefano Domenicali and both Ferrari drivers, all Ferrari men stood by their point that Ferrari was merely giving information to Felipe Massa when saying over the radio "Alonso is faster than you". They all claimed that the pass was a decision of Felipe himself, a point that hardly anyone could believe after hearing the radio conversations and seeing the emotions after the race.
As a result, the race stewards had a different opinion of the matter.
In a statement issued on Sunday night, the FIA stated that a breach of Article 39.1, which bans team orders, and 151c, which relates to bringing the sport into disrepute, had been committed.
It said that the penalty would be: "Fine $100,000. The case will also be referred to the FIA World Motorsport Council for further consideration."
The next WMSC meeting is in September, but it is likely a decision will be made earlier on.
