Arrows expect ultimatum from FIA for Monza

Will they?
By Huw Alban & Mister X
September 3 2002

Today is the day, and 18:00 is the time by which Arrows need to submit a written explanation of the reasons behind their actions leading up to and beyond the British Grand Prix. The FIA have stated that any action they take will be based on the explanation given.

At the time of writing there are just two hours left to go until the deadline expires, and as yet there is little news about whether the team have already responded to the request.

The only news from Leafield is an unconfirmed report that the team expect to be given an ultimatum from the FIA after the explanation has been submitted. Confidential team sources expect the FIA to stipulate that the team either attend and race at Monza in two weeks time, and for the rest of the season, or withdraw from the 2002 championship altogether. If the team do withdraw then it is thought that the FIA will be lenient and still allow it to enter the 2003 championship without further penalty.

In the worst case, if the FIA are dissatisfied with the document, or the team do neither of the above, then Arrows could find themselves expelled from the Formula One championship and facing heavy fees if it wants to enter again in 2003.

An FIA spokesman told the BBC: “We’ve asked Arrows for a detailed explanation about their state of health following certain decisions over the past few weeks. We will then decide which position to adopt.

“[Punishment] could go from a simple fine to being banned from the [F1] circuit.

“But before any decision is taken we must consider the large number of people who are employed with the team.”

The request for an explanation came after the team pulled out of the Belgian Grand Prix on Friday under advice from it’s lawyers. Throughout the weekend both the FIA and Bernie Ecclestone expressed irritation at the team’s behavior over the last few Grands Prix.

A staff briefing is expected to take place this afternoon to update the team personnel with the latest situation. This site will continue to update you as and when the information gets to us.