Felipe Massa’s claim for damages related to the 2008 F1 ‘Crashgate’ scandal may continue to go to trial, but other aspects of the case have been dismissed.
The former Ferrari driver is seeking nearly 64 million pounds ($84 million) in damages, alleging it was a conspiracy to deny him the 2008 world championship. Nelson Piquet Jr. claims he would have been champion had the result of the Singapore Grand Prix been invalidated when he crashed intentionally and Massa, who was leading the race, failed to score.
At a court hearing last month, Massa claimed the FIA, F1 and former CEO Bernie Ecclestone conspired to deny him the 2008 title, after he ultimately lost by one point to Lewis Hamilton.
The defendants tried to have the case dismissed, claiming that it was Massa’s performance that cost him that year’s title. However, after a hearing at the High Court in London, Mr Justice Jay allowed the damages claim to proceed, ruling that Massa had “a real prospect of proving[his case]at trial” in terms of compensation.
What Massa didn’t succeed with was his argument for a declaration that he should have been world champion in 2008.
“Mr. Massa is not entitled to claim declaratory relief on reputational or publicity grounds,” the judge added. “Of course, the current allegations cannot rewrite the outcome of the 2008 Drivers’ World Championship, but if declaratory relief along the lines sought is granted, that is how Mr. Massa’s victory will be shown to the world and how it will be perceived by the public.”
Following the decision, Massa issued a statement saying he was seeking not only compensation but also justice for F1 fans.
“This is a tremendous victory. It’s a great day for me, for justice and for everyone who loves F1,” Massa said. “The court understood the strength of my case and refused to let the defendants silence the truth about 2008. They did everything they could to stop this case, but our fight was for fairness, and today we won.
“The truth will prevail in court. We will leave no stone unturned. I am more determined and confident than ever. Justice will be served. For me, for the Brazilian people, for the tifosi, for all motorsport fans who deserve an honest sport, and for the future of Formula 1.”
“I would like to thank my excellent legal team, my family, and God for guiding us and never losing faith. Together, we will see this through.”
Following the dismissal by the High Court of three aspects of the FIA-related case, namely the request for declaration, the governing body said: “The court has allowed the allegations of conspiracy by unlawful means against the three defendants to proceed to a full trial, albeit on a significantly limited basis.”
