The 2019-20 Formula E champion, Antonio Felix da Costa, found himself at the center of controversy during the recent race held at the ExCeL London. Despite finishing second on-the-road, da Costa was informed by his team, Porsche, that he had been slapped with a three-minute penalty. The penalty was a result of a technical infringement: the minimum tyre pressure was found to be below the specified value given by the tyre supplier.
Suspected Slow Puncture Sparks Dispute
Following the race, da Costa vehemently denied any wrongdoing and attributed the technical infringement to a slow puncture caused by debris on the track. He went on to criticize the officials involved, stating that their decisions were “not good enough”. Porsche immediately lodged an intent to appeal the penalty, exercising their right to file a formal protest within 96 hours.
Porsche wasted no time in pursuing the appeal and officially lodged their appeal, citing the unfairness and incomprehensibility of the decision. In a statement released by Porsche, the team reiterated that da Costa’s slow puncture was a direct result of debris on the track, absolving them of any responsibility. The team expressed their concern for equal treatment and fair play within the spirit of the sport. Porsche will refrain from making further comments until a final decision is reached by the International Court of Appeal (ICA).
If Porsche’s appeal is successful, it could have significant implications in the standings. Currently, Porsche sits in fourth place in the teams’ standings behind Andretti Autosport. However, if the decision is overturned, Porsche would move up to third place, surpassing their customer team. Additionally, da Costa would climb from ninth to fifth place in the drivers’ standings.
As the appeal process unfolds, the entire Formula E community eagerly awaits the final decision by the ICA. The outcome of this appeal will not only have immediate consequences for Porsche and da Costa but will also set a precedent regarding the enforcement of technical regulations and the responsibility of teams in mitigating external impacts on their vehicles.
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