F1: Honda and Alpine fined by FIA over engine cost cap

F1 engine manufacturers Honda and Alpine have been fined by the FIA ​​for minor procedural breaches related to the 2023 cost cap. While both companies stayed within overall spending limits, they failed to follow specific management guidelines. Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) was fined $600,000 and Alpine was fined $400,000.

These irregularities are just minor oversights in the complex management process of cost caps. Both teams have been cooperative and transparent with the FIA ​​throughout the investigation. The FIA’s decision to accept the breach agreement highlights the minor nature of the breach and the willingness of all parties to resolve the issue effectively. The result ensures the focus remains on track competition and the technological advances that drive Formula 1 forward.

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The FIA ​​said in a statement: “The Cost Cap Authority recognizes that both PUMs have cooperated in good faith throughout the review process and have promptly sought to provide further information and evidence when requested. This is the first year in a row. The full application of power plant financial regulations and there is no allegation or evidence that Alpine or HRC sought or obtained any improper advantage as a result of the non-compliance.

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Formula One has strict financial regulations in place to ensure fair competition between teams. In 2021, fleets have introduced cost caps that limit how much they spend on car development and operations. The following year, a similar cap was imposed on power unit manufacturers.

In the first year of the team cost cap, three teams were penalized for violating the rules. Red Bull exceeded spending limits, while Aston Martin and Williams were found guilty of breaching procedures. However, all teams have successfully complied with the cost cap regulations for the 2023 season.