Ferrari fail to garner support in suspension protest

Editor

The 2017 season could begin with a protest after Ferrari failed to garner the support of the FIA and rival teams over the legality of the ‘trick’ suspension systems used by Mercedes and Red Bull.

Earlier this year Ferrari wrote to F1 race director Charlie Whiting questioning the legality of the pre-loaded suspension system.

The system, pioneered by Mercedes, adjusts ride heights and produce greater downforce levels in corners through the use of a third suspension element.

However, Article 3.15 of the regulations states that “any specific part of the car influencing its aerodynamic performance must remain immobile in relation to the sprung part of the car.”

According to Auto Motor und Sport, the matter was again brought up during last week’s meeting with technical directors and the FIA.

Ferrari reportedly “bombarded the FIA” with questions about the legality of the system but could not sway motorsport’s governing body nor rival teams. In fact only three other teams supported them in the matter.

Although reports claim Whiting is expected to issue a technical directive on the issue before pre-season testing starts, should that not go in Ferrari’s favour, the Scuderia face two options.

They can concede defeat or launch a formal protest come the season-opening Australian Grand Prix.