Alpine, the French Formula 1 team, is actively exploring potential actions following the recent ruling by the FIA International Court of Appeal (ICA) regarding the Monaco Grand Prix. This decision has reignited controversy, particularly after team advisor Flavio Briatore raised concerns about the impartiality of one of the judges involved in the case.
The ICA's ruling overturned the stewards' previous decision to annul Pierre Gasly's two five-second penalties for speeding in the pit lane. Consequently, Gasly has been reinstated to seventh place in the race results, while Isack Hadjar has regained his first podium finish with Red Bull Racing. This outcome has significant implications for both drivers and their respective teams in the ongoing championship standings.
During the recent race weekend at Monza, Briatore specifically targeted Filippo Marchino, one of the judges who presided over Gasly's case. He alleged that Marchino has connections to McLaren, the team that appealed the original decision, thereby questioning the judge's independence and integrity. This accusation has not gone unnoticed, with McLaren's team principal Andrea Stella labeling Briatore's comments as "insulting" and defending the integrity of the judicial process.
Despite previously indicating that they would accept the ICA's ruling, Alpine is now reconsidering its position. According to sources, the team is reviewing its options in light of Briatore's claims and the potential ramifications for the championship. The FIA regulations provide a formal pathway for teams to request a review of ICA decisions, particularly if new evidence emerges that could potentially alter the outcome.
Article 15.3 of the FIA Judicial and Disciplinary Rules allows for such a review if significant new information comes to light after the initial ruling. This request must be submitted by November 30 of this year, given that the ruling impacts the championship standings. The ICA will then assess whether there are sufficient grounds for a rehearing of the case.
Briatore contends that Alpine only became aware of the information regarding Marchino's alleged connections after the ICA hearing concluded. However, it remains to be seen whether this information meets the criteria necessary for a review. According to FIA guidelines, judges must be disclosed prior to a case, and any objections to the panel's composition must be raised at that time, which was not done in this instance.
Furthermore, the FIA's rules allow for the possibility of escalating the matter to an external court or tribunal, but only after all internal remedies within the FIA have been exhausted. This stipulation emphasizes the importance of following proper procedures before seeking outside intervention, which requires notifying the motorsport federation.
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