FIA reminds teams of illegal 'oil as fuel' ploy

F1's governing body has addressed a clear reminder to all teams that burning engine oil as fuel is not allowed, following suspicions that Mercedes may have been using the scheme in qualifying last year.

The German manufacturer drew much interest by rival teams last season during its qualifying runs, appearing to enjoy the ability to turn up the power of its engine at will.

A suggestion put forward by rival teams was that Mercedes was cleverly burning additive-boosted oil to extract more performance from its V6 turbo hybrid unit as crucial moments of Q2 and Q3.

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Current engine architecture technically enables the possibility of using oil as fuel, although this would represent a clear breach of F1's technical regulations as teams face strict limitations with regard to power-enhancing chemicals.

The issue was put on the table recently at meetings between technical figures, with Mercedes insisting it was not exploiting any illicit tactics.

Red Bull Racing sought clarification with the FIA however, which in turn prompted the governing to confirm to teams the stratagem's illegality.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.