Formula 1: Cost cap delay sparks speculation as teams await FIA verdict

Mexico City, Oct 25 Speculation over potential cost cap breaches has intensified in Formula One after the sport’s governing body delayed the release of the 2024 financial compliance results.

The FIA has yet to publish the official accounts — a move that has sparked curiosity across the paddock, given that confirmation of compliance in previous years had arrived much earlier.

Sauber team principal Jonathan Wheatley suggested that the delay could indicate financial trouble for one or more teams. “I think the delay in announcing made it very clear to all of us that there were some teams in trouble, or a team in trouble perhaps. Nobody’s doing it intentionally. These things happen sometimes,” Wheatley said during a press conference at the Mexico City Grand Prix.

He also acknowledged the mounting challenges of operating under the cost cap, which was introduced in 2021 to level the playing field and reduce excessive spending among teams. “Unexpected costs can arise from incidents like car crashes,” Wheatley noted, explaining how teams face increasing difficulty in balancing budgets while maximizing performance under the tight financial limits.

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur, however, urged caution, dismissing speculation until the FIA’s review is completed. “I think it’s not a big deal to have the decision in September or October at the end of the day. On this, we have to trust the FIA that they are doing their job. And I think it’s not an easy one, honestly,” Vasseur said. He further emphasized the importance of distinguishing between different types of potential breaches: “We have to separate sporting advantage with a sporting penalty from a technical mistake or administrative issue.”

Haas boss Ayo Komatsu echoed the sentiment, saying that teams must adapt and await the governing body’s conclusions. “Teams must adjust their processes and await the outcome,” he remarked, acknowledging the growing complexity of financial management within Formula One’s regulatory framework.

In a brief statement, the FIA confirmed that its Cost Cap Administration is “finalising its review of 2024 financial submissions,” adding that an official announcement is expected soon. The organization declined to comment on individual cases.

The cost cap, now in its fourth year, remains a cornerstone of Formula One’s effort to maintain competitive balance.

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