F1 teams at war with Racing Point chief Lawrence Stroll ‘appalled’ by £360k fine and point deduction over car parts row

RACING POINT owner Lawrence Stroll has delivered a furious statement in which he says he is “appalled” by rival F1 teams.

The Silverstone-based team were fined £361,000 and issued with a 15-point penalty by the FIA after claims from Renault they had copied Mercedes’ car parts from 2019.

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Lawrence Stroll has delivered a furious statement in which he says he is ‘appalled’ by rival F1 teams[/caption]

Ferrari, Williams, Renault and McLaren have now appealed the decision – in favour of a HARSHER punishment from the FIA.

And the billionaire Canadian is livid and says he will fight to clear the team’s name – which he says is being “dragged through the mud”.

He said: “I do not often speak publicly, however I am extremely angry at any suggestion we have been underhand or have cheated — particularly those comments coming from our competitors.

“I have never cheated at anything in my life. These accusations are completely unacceptable and not true. My integrity – and that of my team – are beyond question.

“Everyone at Racing Point was shocked and disappointed by the FIA ruling and firmly maintain our innocence.

“This team, under various names, has competed in Formula One for over 30 years and today employs 500 people.

“We’ve always been a constructor and will continue to be so in the future.

“Beyond the clear fact that Racing Point complied with the technical regulations, I am appalled by the way Renault, McLaren, Ferrari and Williams have taken this opportunity to appeal, and in doing so attempted to detract from our performances.

“They are dragging our name through the mud and I will not stand by nor accept this. I intend to take all necessary actions to prove our innocence.

“My team has worked tirelessly to deliver the competitive car we have on the grid. I am truly upset to see the poor sportsmanship of our competitors.”