Renault have escaped punishment for their role in the Formula 1 spying scandal.
French team off the hook over spying controversy
Renault have escaped punishment for their role in the Formula 1 spying scandal.
The World Motor Sport Council, which was meeting in Monaco, found Renault guilty of fraudulent conduct but opted against imposing a penalty.
The decision paves the way for Fernando Alonso to potentially return to the team.
It is understood Alonso, who recently quit McLaren in the wake of a turbulent year with the team, has been waiting on this verdict.
In the clear
For now Renault are in the clear even though it was decided that they had brought F1 into disrepute.
An FIA statement read: "An extraordinary meeting of the World Motor Sport Council was held in Monaco on December 6, 2007," read the FIA statement.
"The World Council found Renault F1 to be in breach of article 151c of the International Sporting Code but imposed no penalty.
"Detailed reasons for this decision will be issued on December 7, 2007, and a transcript of the proceedings will be published as soon as possible thereafter."
As far at the FIA are concerned, this case is now closed as the information at the team's disposal would only have had a direct bearing on last season's car.
Focus
Understandably, Renault boss Flavio Briatore was delighted with the verdict, which now means he can focus on re-signing Alonso.
"I would like to thank Renault, our title sponsor ING and all our partners for their wholehearted support during this sensitive period," he said after the five-hour meeting.
"I also wish to pay tribute to the team, which has handled the matter with integrity and dignity.
"We are pleased that we can now focus fully on our preparations for the 2008 championship."
