In a rare action at the UIM Appeals Court in Brussels (Belgium), Italian Formula 1 Powerboat driver Francesco Cantando, (Team Singha) challenged the protest filed by Saudi Arabian contender Laith Pharaon
In a rare action at the UIM Appeals Court in Brussels (Belgium), Italian Formula 1 Powerboat driver Francesco Cantando, (Team Singha) challenged the protest filed by Saudi Arabian contender Laith Pharaon during the first round of the Formula I world series in Portimao earlier this month. The protest resulted in the disqualification of second placed Cantando when he opened his cockpit canopy while still on the circuit. Cantando claimed he had no alternative when a sudden fuel leak gave him breathing difficulties. Instead of retiring however he carried on racing.
After hearing evidence from both sides, the Court decided to reinstate Cantando. The verdict means he therefore retains second finishing position and his fifteen championship points although the Court felt such dangerous action should not go unpenalised and awarded him two yellow cards. Meanwhile race winning Guido Cappellini of Italy looks set to achieve an all-time record eighth world Formula I title.
The second round of the series will be held in Helsinki, Finland, on June 15.
The adjusted result gives the following points position in the championship after one race: 1. G. Cappellini (Ita) 20pts.
2. F. Cantando (Ita) 15pts.
3. F. Comparato (Ita) 12pts.
4. L. Pharaon (Sau) 9pts.
5. D. Benavente (Por) 7pts.
6 G. Ladefoged (Den) 5pts.
7. F. Bocca (Ita) 4pts.
8 B. Trask (Aus) 3pts.
9 A. Elliott 2pts.
10 F. Leidi (Ita) 1pt.
