2017 design controversy begins with Ferrari letter

Controversy regarding the 2017 has begun after Ferrari have designed a suspension which replicates the FRIC (Front and Rear InterConnected) system that was banned in 2014.

Ferrari have therefore sent a letter to Charlie Whiting, which has now made it's way around the paddock, sparking unhappiness with other teams.

After banning the FRIC, teams have found alternate ways of designing the suspension, with many teams reported to have followed Mercedes' concept of a hydraulic system focused on chassis stability for 2017.

Charlie Whiting has not advised other teams to copy Ferrari as their suspension may yet be deemed illegal. The question now is whether teams take the risk of producing a more efficient system with the possibility of it being illegal or sticking to the clear cut rules and design as normal.

Or Ferrari are being cunning by deliberately sending out an inquiry to deter anyone else goes down this path out of fear. It might also prompt others to explore WHAT IF it is deemed legal how could they potentially benefit from it or how much they would be losing out on.

A nice way to troll the ... [Read more]

  • 1
  • Jan 3 2017 - 16:22

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  • Or Ferrari are being cunning by deliberately sending out an inquiry to deter anyone else goes down this path out of fear. It might also prompt others to explore WHAT IF it is deemed legal how could they potentially benefit from it or how much they would be losing out on.

    A nice way to troll the others sending them on a wild goose chase. It doesn't matter for example me thinking this way automatically implies other teams would be wiser. There is always that WHAT IF that forces teams to consider. A tough call to make either way.

    • + 1
    • Jan 3 2017 - 16:22
    • I'm fairly certain that's exactly it. I don't believe for a second that Ferrari were actually seriously considering this option; not this late. It's just a clever way trying to force the FIA to make a decision that could harm their opponents.

      • + 0
      • Jan 3 2017 - 16:48

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