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BMW: Diffuser Verdict Brings Light into F1

The teams that have protested the double-decker diffuser designs used by Brawn GP, Williams F1 and Toyota have officially accepted FIA's ruling over the matter. The International Court of Appeal has cleared all diffuser designs after an 8-hour hearing in Paris, meaning all the other teams will now be forced to revise their technical package ahead of the upcoming races.

Although their declarations before yesterday's hearing were overconfident – on FIA's decision to rule out the designs – the protesting teams seem to have moved on and are now set on developing some new designs of their own in the near future. While expecting ICA's reasoning for the final verdict, the teams seem at peace with themselves for doing everything possible to bring some light into the whole diffuser matter.

“We will accept the decision of the International Court of Appeal. This ruling means we now have clarity regarding the application of the regulations,” said BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen after hearing the verdict.

The BMW official confirmed that his team will now focus on developing a new rear diffuser for the F1.09, in order to become competitive through the 2009 season. He also pointed out that the FIA verdict contradicts with the rules agreed upon by FIA's Overtaking Working Group (OWG), while also leading to immense spending from the teams in the mid-season.

“However, it does not achieve the reduction in downforce and cornering speed intended by the Overtaking Working Group when the new regulations were drawn up. At the same time, this decision means that seven teams will have to invest heavily in carrying out the necessary modifications to their car.”

Ferrari have also confirmed they'll immediately start working on a revised rear fascia for their 2009 challenger (to feature a double-decker design).
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