F1 Scandal Unfolds: Honda and Alpine Power Units Embroiled in Spending Limit Controversy
Honda and Alpine F1 Engine Cost Limit Violation Procedure
The FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) has completed its evaluation management process for the current cost limits of teams and engine manufacturers until 31 December 2023.
According to the FIA, all 10 current F1 teams have fully complied with spending limits over the past year. However, not all engine manufacturers were given the green light.
Alpine and Honda were found to have committed procedural breaches, but neither exceeded the cost cap level. The FIA statement added that both manufacturers “acted in good faith and are currently working with the Cost Cap Control Committee (CCA) to reach a definitive resolution to this matter.”
The CCA has ordered Alpine and Honda to comply with the Acceptable Breach Agreement (ABA) and intends to propose a resolution for each violation.
Power Unit Cost Cap Regulations
The 2023 Power Unit Cost Cap regulations set a spending limit of $140.4 million for a 23-race season. The rules allow for 24 expenses for the event, as the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix was canceled at the last minute.
Beyond the pure spending limits, there are obligations that manufacturers must respect, and procedural violations may be linked to the timing of submission of the necessary documentation to the FIA.
The Treasury Regulations provide for several elements that constitute procedural violations, including late filing, failure to cooperate with written requests for information or documentation, or submitting inaccurate documentation.
Penalties for Procedural Violations
Penalties for procedural violations are purely financial, unless the FIA is satisfied that there are mitigating factors that justify further action, or that there are sufficient aggravating factors to impose a sporting sanction.
Category: Formula 1 / FIA (International Automobile Federation) / Honda F1 / Alpine F1 Team