Setback for Ferrari F1 as FIA Dismisses Request Involving Carlos Sainz

The FIA and Ferrari shared a close bond with each other. Considering Ferrari’s rich history in the sport as a regular team since its inception, seldom have the two been at loggerheads. However, after Sainz being denied the opportunity to test, the Italians may have developed some bitter feelings.

There has been a lot of speculation regarding the post-season Abu Dhabi testing, the event labeled as Young Driver’s Test. From the name, one could deduce that they designed it for inexperienced drivers. However, after Renault got permission for Alonso testing here, others came down with their requests.

Renault is looking forward to the return of two-time world champion, Fernando Alonso. The Spaniard has been practicing hard but will need as much time in the car as he can get. Thus, Renault had made the request to let him test at Abu Dhabi. However, this did not sit well with other constructors.

As Alonso is definitely no novice to the format of F1, he does not fit the description of an ‘inexperienced driver.’ However, when Ferrari earlier claimed for Carlos to test at Abu Dhabi, their proposal did not receive any response.

“Having heard the decision, we have asked the FIA the permission for Carlos. We discussed it this weekend, but we have no feedback,” expressed Binotto.

Read More – Binotto Confirms Carlos Sainz’s First Ferrari Test as Ricciardo and Vettel Miss out

Ferrari insist Alonso being allowed to test is wrong

Ferrari were not the only team disagreeing with Alonso testing for Abu Dhabi. Teams like Haas and McLaren also stood against this malpractice. However, Michael Masi’s explanation of those drivers who have raced over two F1 races will only be granted permission if, “they had not competed in any F1 races during the 2020 season” resolves the dispute.

The explanation makes sense and Alonso fits the description. However, the Italians still presume that it is incorrect and to an extent, biased on FIA’s part.  The explanation rendered above did not please Binotto, and might not please the other team bosses either.

“I think it’s quite a bit of a mess, and certainly we Ferrari, contrary to the fact that Fernando is testing in Abu Dhabi, we think it’s wrong,” highlighted Binotto.

Ferrari is suffering from one of the worst years in their history. For them, testing Carlos is very crucial, as they might not have enough time to adjust him to their car. However, Carlos was a full-time racer at McLaren and thus, it might be difficult for Ferrari to convince FIA.

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