• News

Mercedes in the dock over tyre test

No case to answer ... Ferrari mechanics check the tyres on arrival in Canada © Sutton Images

Enlarge

Related Links

• News:
• Hamilton claims FIA hearing 'first I've heard' of tyre row
  
• News:
• Angry Vettel slams Mercedes tyre tests
  
• News:
• I knew what I was testing - Rosberg
  
• News:
• Race drivers more relevant for Pirelli - Rosberg
  
• Feature:
• How the International Tribunal works
  
• News:
• Mercedes wants to explain itself over tyre test
  
• News:
• Mercedes had no control of test - Rosberg
  

Mercedes faces a range of hefty penalties after the FIA decided to refer its alleged illegal tyre test to its international tribunal, ranging from expulsion from the constructor's championship to a fine. However, the FIA decided Ferrari had no case to answer.

Both teams were asked to answer questions after a row erupted over the Monaco Grand Prix weekend when it was revealed Mercedes had conducted private tests after the Spanish Grand Prix a fortnight earlier. It later emerged Ferrari had also done this.

But crucially Mercedes tested using its 2013 car while Ferrari used an older 2011 chassis and as a result the FIA has only called Mercedes to face the tribunal.

A statement from the FIA said: "In the light of all the replies received and in view of the information gathered during this inquiry, the president of the FIA, acting as the FIA prosecuting body, has decided:

• To close the case as regard to Scuderia Ferrari Team considering that its participation in a tyre testing organized by Pirelli in Barcelona on 23-24 April 2013 using for this purpose a 2011 car is not deemed to contravene the applicable FIA rules.

• To bring the case concerning the tyre testing session carried out by Pirelli and Team Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 in Barcelona on 15-17 May 2013 before the FIA International Tribunal because it results from the inquiry that the conditions of this testing may constitute a breach of the applicable FIA rules.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.