Mercedes sues former engineer for data theft

Mercedes-Benz is suing one of its former Formula 1 engineer's for taking confidential information and data prior to the latter joining rival Ferrari.

According to an October 19 legal filing, Benjamin Hoyle, who joined Mercedes' performance engineering department in 2012, searched and saved files which included a 2015 Hungarian Grand Prix race report, mileage and damage data relating to the manufacturer's power units, and files containing code required to decrypt race data.

In its law suit, the company alleged that "Hoyle's actions were calculated to destroy or seriously damage the relationship of trust" he has with Mercedes.

"Mr. Hoyle and potentially Ferrari have gained an unlawful advantage."

Hoyle apparently informed his employer on May 21st of last year of his intent to resign when his contract expired at the end of 2015. Mercedes then reassigned the engineer to duties unrelated to F1 while the manufacturer learned of his intention of moving to Ferrari shortly later.

In spite of this, it was later discovered that Hoyle had forced access to confidential data and race reports, while also attempting to cover his tracks by deleting files.

Mercedes is now determined through legal action to block Hoyle from joining the Scuderia or any other F1 competitor until the end of the 2016 season. It has also demanded the return of all documents and information as well as payment of its legal fees.

"Legal action is underway involving Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains Ltd. and an employee," Mercedes said in an e-mailed statement to Bloomberg. "The company has taken the appropriate legal steps to protect its intellectual property."

The MP4-X: McLaren unveils radical F1 concept car design

Technical analysis - Abu Dhabi

Use the red tabs on either side of the screen to scroll through more Formula One news and features

Click here for a gallery of the McLaren MP4-X

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.

Recent Posts

Aston Martin says performance shortfall led to Fallows exit

Aston Martin performance director Tom McCullough has shed some light on why the team’s former…

2 hours ago

FIA clamps down on plank loophole after Red Bull complaint

The FIA has issued a pivotal Technical Directive to F1 teams ahead of this weekend’s…

3 hours ago

F1 drivers blindsided by race director Wittich’s sudden exit

The abrupt removal last week of FIA race director Niels Wittich with just three races…

5 hours ago

McLaren relaxes ‘papaya rules’: Norris and Piastri free to race

Oscar Piastri has confirmed that McLaren’s team orders—dubbed the "Papaya Rules"—have been largely relaxed, giving…

6 hours ago

Cheers to the forever young pure racer Jacques Laffite

The forever young Jacques Laffite turns 81 today, but the years haven't aged this pure…

7 hours ago

Las Vegas GP: Wednesday's build-up in pictures

The neon lights of Las Vegas are set to illuminate the Formula 1 world once…

8 hours ago