The possible threat of protest is now looming over next month’s Formula 1 World Championship season opener in Australia, with Mercedes and Renault taking issue with the ultra-lightweight Ferrari engine cover.
We reported a month ago that a dispute was brewing between Formula 1 engine suppliers Ferrari, Mercedes and Renault.
The dispute is about the protective covering on the top of Ferrari’s turbo unit, weighing in at a crucial 3 kilograms lighter than the ones fitted on the Mercedes and Renault units.
Mercedes and Renault argue that Ferrari’s cover needs to be more substantial for safety reasons in the event of a dangerous turbo failure, but Ferrari’s explanation was initially accepted by the governing FIA.