McLaren and Mercedes are accused of exceeding the budget cap in 2024. Both teams are reportedly overspent in the past season. It was previously revealed that Aston Martin had made a ‘minor procedural misstep’ in reporting its finances, but another team may have committed a more serious offense. The FIA is expected to soon clarify which teams have complied with the budget rules.
The Italian branch of Sky Sports reports that both McLaren and Mercedes exceeded the budget cap in 2024. This contradicts earlier claims that only one team had violated the rules last year. The outlet also suggests that the FIA will ‘soon’ make an official announcement about the finances of both teams. The other two top teams, Ferrari and Red Bull, have reportedly been cleared of such an offense.
If McLaren and Mercedes are indeed found guilty, the consequences could be far-reaching. Red Bull was already penalized in 2022 for exceeding the budget cap, resulting in a seven million dollar fine and less wind tunnel testing time. The FIA can impose various penalties on Mercedes and McLaren, depending on the severity of the violation. In the case of a procedural error, as was the case with Aston Martin, this would likely lead to limited financial sanctions. The British racing team had admitted to making a minor misstep and had promptly informed the FIA.
Far-reaching Consequences
In the event of a serious breach of the budget cap, the FIA can also impose sporting penalties. For instance, McLaren and Mercedes could lose points in the current title race or even be suspended for one or more races. This would be disastrous for Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, who are competing for the drivers’ championship. Potential sanctions also loom in the run-up to the 2026 season, such as reduced testing time or a smaller budget.
The FIA is expected to soon provide clarity on the financial data of all teams, including McLaren and Mercedes. Until then, the allegations should be taken with a grain of salt. For example, the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera reports that McLaren has actually been cleared of a violation. It is clear, however, that the FIA is conducting a lengthy investigation into one or more teams. Normally, the financial data is already presented in September. To be continued.
