The FIA appeals the verdict in the Briatore case

The FIA has decided to appeal the decision of the Tribunal de Grande Instance (TGI) of Paris, which lifted the lifetime ban on any involvement in motorsport for Flavio Briatore and Pat Symonds. Last week, the Italian won a legal action against the FIA by demanding the lifting of his ban.

The French court declared that the penalties imposed on Briatore and Symonds were irregular, even though it was not against the guilt of the pair. After discussions between the FIA, represented by its president Jean Todt, and representatives of his organization, the governing body decided to appeal the verdict rendered by the French courts.

A statement released Monday declares: « The President of the FIA has consulted the FIA senate and lawyers concerning the decision of the Paris Tribunal de Grande Instance on January 5. During his election campaign last summer, FIA President Jean Todt and his team announced that new disciplinary measures would be introduced. Progress on this issue has been substantial. Once in place, they will address the questions raised in court. Nevertheless, an appeal is warranted. »

The FIA has clearly stated that during the appeal, the decisions of the World Motor Sport Council remain in effect. This means that Briatore and Symonds still cannot work in motorsport.

« While the appeal is ongoing, the decision of the World Motor Sport Council of September 21, 2009, remains fully in effect, » added the statement. « Given the uncertainty this might create for the drivers affected by this decision, the FIA President and Senate have decided that pending the outcome of the FIA appeal, Super licenses will continue to be issued as usual. »

« The FIA President, the FIA Senate, the World Motor Sport Council, and the various members of the FIA clubs from all countries will take necessary measures to ensure the ongoing integrity and safety of the sport. »