The FIA has been aware of the cheating scandal since Brazil 2008

Nelson Piquet Senior, father and manager of the former Renault F1 driver, recently revealed that he had already shared his statements with the FIA last year. However, no action could be taken as long as Nelson Piquet Jr. had not made his official statement.

Still awaiting the FIA World Council’s decision next Monday on the cheating affair, the Piquet clan continues its revelations. Piquet Senior has confirmed having already contacted the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) during the 2008 Brazilian Grand Prix to report the facts. He reportedly communicated directly with Charlie Whiting, the race director.

« When I saw the accident in Singapore, I couldn’t believe it. I’ve been racing cars my entire life. So I went to see my son and he told me that yes, he was asked to hit the wall. I reminded him that he could have been injured or even hurt someone else. He replied that he knew it was a bad thing, but that it didn’t matter. »

« So in Brazil, I went to see Charlie [Whiting]. » The race director would have then informed the FIA but without evidence, could not open a case. Nelson Piquet Senior then contacted Mosley, telling him that « no evidence exists if Piquet does not come to see me. »

Several major English and Italian sports newspapers published the account of Piquet Sr. The Daily Mirror claims that it was the father who convinced his son to go to court: « I have money to get the best lawyers. What’s wrong with exposing the truth? We have nothing to lose. »

It was only after being dismissed by Renault that Piquet Jr. shared his testimony with the FIA management.