Haas driver Romain Grosjean has lost his sixth place finish at the Italian Grand Prix as a result of a challenge by Renault regarding the legality of the team’s floor. It’s unclear whether or not the FIA will be taking action against the other Haas car, although that wouldn’t change much, given the low finishing position of Kevin Magnussen.
As reported after the race, the stewards took control of the Haas cars for a post-race investigation prompted by a rule challenge by Renault. The floor is believed to be the same floor used on both Haas cars at the Belgian Grand Prix as well.
Grosjean has been excluded from the race results for the Italian Grand Prix. His Belgian Grand Prix finish will remain unchanged. The penalty is due to failure to comply with Article 3.7.1.d of the FIA F1 Technical Regulations, which were clarified near the end of the summer break. The article reads:
“The surface formed by all parts lying on the reference plane must have a 50mm radius (+/-2mm) on each front corner when viewed from directly beneath the car, this being applied after the surface has been defined.”
The rule was clarified to the team near the end of the summer break and they were advised to change the floor, but the team requested a grace period to make the chances because of the summer break, asking to be given until the Singapore Grand Prix. Their request was denied by the FIA, but the team left the same floor on the car.
The result of the disqualification moves Renault ahead of Haas in the World Constructors’ Championship title race, claiming P4.
Haas has the right to appeal the penalty, which they will likely attempt to do.
