BAR software device appeal rejected

BAR received some more bad news this week when the International Court of Appeal rejected its argument in regard to a software device deemed illegal by stewards at Hockenheim. The device was used on the front of the spare car during Friday practice and improved cornering ability through torque transfer.

The device was bought to the attention of the stewards, who disallowed it. BAR lodged an appeal, claiming the interpretation of the regulations was the point of debate. The appeal was heard yesterday and the court upheld the stewards' decision.

"The International Court of Appeal met in Paris on Monday, August 9, 2004, in order to examine the appeal introduced by the Motor Sports Association (the National Sporting Authority for the UK) on behalf of licence-holder BAR GP Limited," said a statement from the FIA.

"The appeal was made against decision N°16 of the Panel of the Stewards taken on July 24, 2004. The appeal concerned an "electro hydraulic software controlled device which connects the front wheels via drive shafts and allows controlled torque transfer from a faster wheel to a slower wheel even under braking" on the T car of the team."

"Having heard the explanations of both parties and having examined the various documents and other evidence, the Court upheld the decision of the Panel of the Stewards."