The budget cap saga shakes up F1 again, and this time it involves McLaren and Mercedes.
F1 teams McLaren and Mercedes are suspected of having exceeded the budget cap. They reportedly spent beyond the limit set by the FIA for the 2024 season. An investigation is ongoing, and the verdict could disrupt the championship hierarchy.
The impact of exceeding the budget cap in F1
Since its introduction in 2021, the FIA has tried to restore a form of fairness among teams. They agreed at around 135 million dollars (excluding driver and management salaries). The federation set this limit in order to contain the spending race. After all, it widened the gap between the wealthiest and the more modest teams on the grid.
McLaren and Mercedes in the FIA’s sights
The two teams allegedly spent more than the regulations allow. The FIA has yet to publish its official compliance list. That said, according to early leaks, they already cleared Ferrari and Red Bull. As for McLaren and Mercedes, both F1 teams remain under investigation regarding the budget cap.
If the investigation confirms their fault, sanctions could vary depending on the severity of the infraction. A procedural error would only result in a fine, as was the case for Aston Martin in 2023. But we cannot say the same for a significant budget overrun. If they exceeded by more than 5%, the FIA would consider that a huge violation, subject to sporting penalties.
Exceeding the budget cap in F1 can be costly
Rumors have been circulating since the Mexican GP paddock. According to them, McLaren allegedly exceeded the cap in a “substantial” way. In the harshest scenario, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri’s team could be disqualified from the 2024 Constructors’ Championship. Mercedes, meanwhile, has apparently exceeded it more moderately. But it would still be enough to justify reduced testing time or a limited budget for 2025.
A precedent with significant meaning in Formula 1
The situation recalls that of Red Bull in 2022. The FIA had indeed found the Austrian team guilty of exceeding by about 1.8 million dollars. They then received a fine of 7 million. This was in addition to a 10% reduction in their wind tunnel usage.
What penalty for exceeding the F1 budget cap?
The FIA could be stricter this time to prevent any repeat. Loss of championship points, or even a race suspension, are possible. This would be an important blow for Toto Wolff and his team as Mercedes tries to return to the top. The same goes for McLaren, which is enjoying its best season in years.
Direct rivals, including Ferrari, would also benefit from the situation. In fact, a potential disqualification of McLaren could shake up the Constructors’ standings. This would leave other teams an unexpected place on the podium.
An unbearable wait in the paddock
For now, the FIA remains cautious regarding this F1 budget cap story. Its official statement mentions an audit process “being finalized.” It also announces public results “soon.” Meanwhile, speculation runs high, between organized leaks and misinformation.
Some report that McLaren has ultimately been acquitted. However, the international body has confirmed no decision. Everyone is therefore awaiting the announcement of the verdict expected in the coming days.