Stella hits back at Briatore's 'insulting' McLaren accusation

Andrea Stella has branded Flavio Briatore's accusation against McLaren as "insulting" after a heated Italian Grand Prix press conference exchange.

The clash follows the FIA Court of Appeal reinstating Pierre Gasly's Monaco GP time penalties, stripping Alpine of a podium and promoting Red Bull's Isack Hadjar to P3. Briatore then claimed a judge in the case was "linked" to McLaren.

Why it matters:

This goes beyond two points. McLaren and Red Bull appealed to clarify Article 1.1.1 of the FIA International Sporting Code, with Stella arguing the case was about "sporting equality and fairness." Briatore's accusation threatens to undermine confidence in the FIA's judicial process.

The details:

• Stella initially said it was "not convenient" to react, but when pressed, he responded firmly.
• "Quite insulting": Stella said the press conference direction was insulting "for the reputation of a team that deserves a lot of respect."
• A warning: Stella warned that anyone making such allegations "will have to take the responsibility for what they are saying in a public forum."
• Defending the process: Stella insisted the hearing "was conducted to the highest standards" and should not be questioned.
• All teams involved: Stella revealed all teams attended the hearing, underlining the ruling's significance for consistent rule application.

What's next:

Briatore's comments have reportedly been flagged with the FIA's legal department for review. With tensions high at the front of the grid, this adds another layer of friction to the 2026 season.