Williams declines to appeal Racing Point verdict

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After McLaren yesterday, Williams has also decided not to appeal the FIA's verdict in the case involving Racing Point's brake ducts, leaving just Ferrari and Renault as the only appellants.

Racing Point was fined €400,000 and docked 15 Constructors' championship points for using on its RP20 car a brake duct design copied from Mercedes' 2019 W10 car.

Ferrari, Renault, McLaren and Williams had initially signaled their intention to appeal the verdict, as they considered the punishment to be too lenient and also questioned the FIA's decision to allow Racing Point to continue using the controversial element until the end of the season.

McLaren withdraws from Racing Point appeal process

McLaren pulled out of the procedure on Tuesday evening and Williams has now done the same.

"After careful consideration, Williams have elected not to proceed with the formal appeal," the Grove-based team said in a statement released on Wednesday.

"We believe the FIA’s decision to seek the prohibition of extensive car copying for 2021 onwards addresses our most fundamental concern and reasserts the role and responsibility of a constructor within the sport, which is fundamental to Formula 1’s DNA and Williams core beliefs and principles."

Ferrari and Renault now stand alone in the appeal process, while Racing Point is also likely to confirm its appeal from the other side of the legal bench.

"There has been a violation of the regulations here," Scuderia boss Mattia Binotto said at Silverstone last weekend.

"This is like copying a test. There are those who copy the test, and those who pass the test to have others copy it.

"I don't think there's anything to add to that. The facts are obvious. We are opponents and this is normal. Everyone looks at their own interest.

"We have laid down our intention to appeal. We believe that the sentence was not adequate, and we have four days to confirm it."

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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.