The Federation Internationale de l'Automobile faced a decision yesterday that wasn't theirs to make. The idea that Mercedes might leave if given a harsh punishment was something they could not fool around with. Mercedes is one of the top three teams in F1 currently, and have already amassed a giant collection of supporters. If the FIA were to punish them with anything regarding point deductions or taking away the win, that would have had major consequences. Now, do I think Mercedes would have actually left F1, I doubt it, but just the threat is enough, a good tactical move by Mercedes by the way.
This all happened about a week before the trial, but then things turned even worse for the Federation, as Mercedes revealed that they had received verbal consent from Charlie Whiting, meaning if the FIA enforced a harsh decision, they would look stupid and unorganized.
The Verdict:*
Clever, but useless. The tire test wasn't with the 2013 tires, it was cleared by the FIA, and Ferrari did the exact same thing in 2011 and did not get any penalties whatsoever. The tests shouldn't be an issue, but the only issue is that now, those who are suffering are the young drivers. With Rosberg possibly going to Ferrari next year, there would be a space open at Mercedes which could be filled by promising young driver Sam Bird, but he won't get a chance to test a Mercedes. Last year the Young Driver test didn't change much, so it's not a great decision. They should have just given them a fine.
*In case you don't know, the verdict was that Mercedes is not allowed to participate in the Young Driver Test this year.
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