FIA again comments on Red Bull rumours: 'Wild speculation'

Ahead of the results of the cost cap investigation by the FIA, all eyes are on Red Bull Racing. Many seem to already have their verdict ready, but the FIA is anything but happy with all the speculation and accusations circulating in the Formula 1 paddock.

The governing body previously expressed dissatisfaction with this. Robert Reid, vice-president sport of the FIA, said there was far too much speculation about the outcome of the investigation. That investigation is not public, yet details leaked out after which Toto Wolff and Mattia Binotto, among others, eagerly mixed in the suspicions. Not only Red Bull but also Aston Martin is accused of exceeding the budget ceiling in 2021.

Speaking at the Japanese GP weekend at Suzuka, Reid made it clear that the FIA is frustrated that F1 teams are blaming their rivals. "I think the unfortunate thing for me is there's been so much speculation, and wild speculation. And that's caused situations where potentially there's even some reputational damage now which is unfortunate. There's been so much talk" he said in a conversation with Motorsport.com.

Reid further stresses that the new regulations are still in an early phase and adjustments are likely to be needed, as is constantly happening in Formula 1's technical and sporting regulations. He points out that there may be some unintended consequences of the way some of the rules are written and calls this the first 'proper trial' of the rules around the budget cap.

Reid says he himself does not know what the numbers look like, but he stresses that everyone knows the rules and therefore the possible consequences. He urges everyone to mainly wait for the outcome on Monday. The most important outcome, according to Reid, has to be that the financial regulations work, whether there are violations or not.