What Did DS Penske Formula E Team Get Caught Doing in Portland E-Prix?

DS Penske Formula E Team Caught ‘Spying’ Again

The DS Penske Formula E team has been caught in yet another ‘spying’ scandal, this time at the Portland E-Prix. The team was fined €5000 and had one of its personnel passes withdrawn after a team member was found to be noting rivals’ tyre usage plans. This is the second ‘spying’ offence for the team in two years.

What Happened in Portland?

During Friday’s practice session, a junior member of the Penske squad was found to be jotting down tyre selections from other teams in the third line area opposite the pitlane. FIA officials tracked the individual and asked to justify their actions since they were only using a ‘bronze’ pass.

A ‘bronze’ pass allows the wearer access only to the designated guest viewing area of the pitlane and is a ‘non-live’ pass that does not grant access to working areas like the pitlane. The individual was also found to be taking notes, which caught the attention of the FIA.

Team’s Explanation

DS Penske team manager Chris Bluett was summoned to the stewards’ room after practice to explain the actions of the team member. The team’s explanation was that the staff member had been flown in late with additional parts and was told to find a spectator area to watch the session since they did not have the appropriate pass to perform any active duties.

However, the team member mistakenly followed a pitboard operative who also spots tyre choices and assisted of their own initiative out of misplaced enthusiasm.

Covert Tactics in Formula E

Covert tactics are not uncommon in Formula E. Several teams are said to hire photographers to gather information, while one team allegedly booked a hotel with a view of the Hong Kong E-Prix circuit and used binoculars to spy on team garages.

Implications for DS Penske

The fine and the withdrawal of the pass are a setback for DS Penske. The team has been in contention for the championship this season, but this incident could distract them and damage their reputation.

The FIA is taking a hard stance on spying in Formula E, and the DS Penske incident is a reminder that teams cannot gain an unfair advantage by using illegal tactics.