Renault to NOT appeal Japan GP disqualification

Renault Formula 1 team have decided to not appeal the stewards decision to disqualify drivers Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg of their results from the Japanese Grand Prix due to having "no new evidence" other than what had already been produced to show the legality of their brake system.

The French team secured a double points finish in Suzuka, Ricciardo P6 and Hulkenberg P10, but were subject to an appeal from SportPesa Racing Point for the legality of their braking system afterwards.

The FIA announced earlier that both drivers would be disqualified as the brake system used "constitutes a driving aid and is, therefore, not in compliance with Article 27.1 [of the] FIA Formula 1 Sporting Regulations."

Renault responded  to the news about their disqualification and said that they would "consider its next course of action within the timeframe laid out by the FIA." but have since revealed that they will not be appealing the FIA's decision.

Their statement on Twitter reads:

"We regret the Stewards' decision and, in particular, the severity of the sanction applied. In our opinion, the penalty is not proportionate to any benefit the drivers derived, especially when used within the context of a system confirmed fully legal and innovative. It is also inconsistent with previous sanctions for similar breaches, as acknowledged by the Stewards in their decision, but expressed without further argumentation.

"However, since we have no new evidence to bring other than that already produced to demonstrate the legality of our system, we do not wish to invest further time and effort in a sterile debate in front of the International Court of Appeal concerning the subjective appreciation, and therefore sanction, related to an aid that reduces the driver workload without enhancing the performance of the car.

"We have therefore decided not to appeal the Stewards’ decision.

"Formula One will always be an arena for the relentless search for the slightest possible opportunities for competitive advantage. It is what we have always done and will continue to do, albeit with stronger internal processes before innovative solutions are brought on track."