Mercedes has decided to drop its call against Max Verstappen’s controversial win at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with Lewis Hamilton play a leading role in the decision.
The British driver missed Sunday’s record-breaking eighth Formula One title despite dominating much of the race, with a late safety car – and controversial restart – awarding the fight win for Verstappen.
Going against precedent, only cars between the two title competitors were allowed to pass safely, putting the Dutchman right behind Hamilton with new, soft tires and easy overtaking.
Mercedes team principle Toto Wolff was harsh with the FIA’s race director Michael Masi at the time, shouting it was ‘not right’ while Hamilton was heard on team radio saying the result was was ‘manipulated’.
Red Bull insists it won’t be fair and equitable, while Mercedes has had two objections that have since been dismissed: one related to the fact that not all cars are allowed to inflate on their own before The safety car is released, and one shows Verstappen briefly ahead of Hamilton before the restart.
Mercedes sent a notice of intent to appeal the managers’ decision and had until Thursday night to confirm whether they pressed first, but has now refused to appeal.
In a lengthy statement sharing their disappointment with how things have turned out and praising Verstappen, Mercedes confirmed: ‘We welcome the FIA’s decision to form a committee to thoroughly analyze what happened. in Abu Dhabi and improve the robustness of rules, governance and decision-making in Formula 1.
‘We also welcome the fact that they have invited teams and drivers to participate. The Mercedes-AMG Petronas team will actively work with this committee to build a better Formula 1 – for every team and every fan who loves the sport as much as we do. We will hold the FIA accountable for this process and we withdraw our appeal. ‘
Mercedes said it had deliberated with Hamilton before coming to a decision and still considered ‘the way things were not right’ and that it had initially appealed ‘in the interest of sporting fairness’.
They also took time to pay tribute to the new champion, writing: ‘To Max Verstappen and Red Bull Racing: we want to pay our sincere respects for your achievement this season. You made this fight for the Formula 1 championship truly epic. Max, we congratulate you and your entire team. We look forward to bringing you to the fight on the track next season. ‘
Hamilton, who received his knighthood this week, was also hailed in the statement: ‘Lewis, you are the greatest driver in the history of Formula 1 and you have made your heart flutter for everyone. laps of this incredible season. You were the perfect athlete on and off the track and you delivered a flawless performance. As a pure competitor and role model to millions around the world, we salute you. ‘
Based on Daily mail, Mercedes’ U-turn was largely triggered by Hamilton, who did not want to win such a historic and important title in the courts, while he felt it was in F1’s best interest not to continue following. legal path.
He still feels ‘bitter’ about the way events unfolded, while Mercedes’ lawyers feel they have an extremely strong case, but they were ready to refuse after the Model Sports Council FIA World acknowledges that there are lessons to be learned.
They acknowledged the nature of the ending in Abu Dhabi ‘stained the image of the Championship’ and suggested a ‘detailed analysis and clarification exercise’ to investigate exactly what happened and ensure Make sure it doesn’t happen again in the future.
Aside from a brief post-match interview with Jenson Button, in which the controversy remains unresolved, Hamilton has yet to discuss what happened on Sunday while Wolff also declined the usual media engagements. mine.
However, Verstappen and Red Bull principle Christian Horner have both received text messages from the Mercedes chief, in which Wolff texted his counterpart: ‘Sorry, I can’t be there to pick you up when you arrive meet us. Congratulations to the riders championship with Max. He is a worthy champion and a fierce competitor. Wish you fun evening. You’ve earned it.’
THAN : Sir Lewis Hamilton – F1 legend receives knighthood from Prince of Wales
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