The FIA Court of Appeal has upheld the governing body's claim that mass dampers contravene the rules.

Doesn't look good for Renault. I think the ruling sucks though.

Go Honda!

 

Interesting development.

 

If it is illegal, then shouldn't Alonso and Renault have zero points? Also, wouldn't their championship title from last year be tainted, or even revoked?

 

That's a good point. I'm not sure if anyone in the F1 community will bring that up though. Has anyone actually had points taken away for using a system of any sort that was later found to be illegal? My mind is blanking right now on all the controversial aids that have been used in the past, but I can't think of points being taken away from any of the teams involved.

 

I don't think any team has ever been docked points for a similar offense. The closest would be BAR's 2 race ban and forfeiture of points earned at San Marino for the fuel ballast ruling last year.

 

That's what I thought. Even back in the day when the whole drama over traction control and driver aids was going on, I don't recall anyone being docked points for it. I suppose if Renault or any other team uses the damper in the future, then it might lead to points taken off or bans, but I don't see how the FIA would be able to apply the ban retroactively.