Wednesday, September 10, 2008

McLaren determined to move on from Spa

McLaren say they will not to let the disappointment of Lewis Hamilton's 25-second penalty for cutting a chicane at the Belgian Grand Prix affect their preparation for this weekend's race in Monza.

Hamilton took victory at Spa-Francorchamps after a race-long duel with Kimi Raikkonen, but the race stewards ruled that he had gained an advantage when he cut a chicane two laps from home - and overtook his Finnish rival one corner later.

McLaren have notified the FIA of their intention to appeal, which needs to be confirmed by this time next week, after a decision that has caused huge controversy.

Mercedes-Benz motorsport boss Norbert Haug said on Monday that he did not believe Hamilton gained an advantage - and rallied his team to keep pushing hard heading into Italy.

"In our opinion Lewis did not achieve this win because of an illegitimate advantage," said Haug. "However, we will keep our heads up.

"We are now looking forward to the next race in Monza on the coming weekend - we need to continue to be fully focused as nothing is decided in the world championship yet."

Hamilton has stayed fairly silent over the matter, not speaking to the press at Spa-Francorchamps after he was notified that he was pushed down to third place.

In a statement issued by McLaren on Monday, the Briton said that he gave Raikkonen space to regain the lead.

"When the heavens opened, Kimi was a little cautious under braking and I was able to get really close," explained Hamilton.

"When I had a look around the outside at the chicane, we almost had an accident, and I needed to steer left to avoid him. As we crossed the start/finish line, I left him the space to get back ahead and then managed to get my car up the inside at La Source."



  • Lauda: Hamilton did nothing wrong
  • Kobayashi stripped of Spa point
  • McLaren plan to appeal Hamilton’s penalty
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