Renault opt not to appeal Japanese Grand Prix disqualification

Renault’s disqualification from the Japanese Grand Prix will stand after the French marque decided against appealing - despite saying they believe the penalty was “inconsistent with previous sanctions for similar breaches”.

Racing Point launched a protest at Suzuka regarding an alleged breach of the Sporting and Technical Regulations and the FIA International Sporting Code, relating to a ‘pre-set, automated brake bias system’ - something Renault disputed.

Following an examination of the evidence, the FIA stewards determined the described control system was not pre-set, nor lap distance-dependent as alleged, but they found Renault did breach the Sporting Regulations regarding driver aids.

As a result, Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg – who finished sixth and 10th respectively at Suzuka - were disqualified. Renault acknowledged the decision and after careful consideration, have decided not to move forward with an appeal.

“We regret the Stewards’ decision and, in particular, the severity of the sanction applied. In our opinion, the penalty is not proportionate to any benefit the drivers derived, especially when used within the context of a system confirmed fully legal and innovative,” they said in a statement.

“It is also inconsistent with previous sanctions for similar breaches, as acknowledged by the Stewards in their decision, but expressed without further argumentation.

“However, since we have no new evidence to bring other than that already produced to demonstrate the legality of our system, we do not wish to invest further time and effort in a sterile debate in front of the International Court of Appeal concerning the subjective appreciation, and therefore sanction, related to an aid that reduces the driver workload without enhancing the performance of the car.

“We have therefore decided not to appeal the Stewards’ decision.

“Formula 1 will always be an arena for the relentless search for the slightest possible opportunities for competitive advantage. It is what we have always done and will continue to do, albeit with stronger internal processes before innovative solutions are brought on track.”

The disqualification has a major impact on the constructors’ championship, with Renault now 43 points behind McLaren in the fight for fourth, with Toro Rosso and Racing Point breathing down their necks six and 10 points adrift respectively.

The French marque now faces a huge fight to maintain their position with just four races of the championship to go.