The Renault scandal has almost completely unfolded after the World Motor Sport Council’s 90 minute hearing - and it’s a case of au revoir Flavio. You too Pat. 

Renault’s team boss and race engineer have both been served their marching orders, whilst the F1 team itself faces a two year suspended ban. We think they’re still getting off lightly, but at least the prolific team stays in the competition – provided no other dirty secrets are exposed over the next 24 months. Flavio Briatore however won’t, nor to any other FIA sanctioned event – such is the severity of his fate whereas his ex-engineering chief Pat Symonds suffers a forced five year hiatus from F1. 

Nelson Piquet Jnr, who brought the entire conspiracy to light (and was at the centre of it) gets an ‘all-clear’ from the council, whilst Fernando Alonso leaves the hearing smelling only of roses. Renault would surely be gone were it not for their unreserved apology to the F1 community and the severing of its ties with Briatore and Symonds. Well played.