Petter Solberg (Photo Credit: World Rally Pics)
Petter Solberg got himself in hot water with the Monte Carlo rally organisers, after being clocked doing 106km/h in a 50km/h zone. The offence was committed last night, as crews returned to service in Monaco following the conclusion of the day’s competitive stages.
“On being questioned, the driver explained that indeed, he was accelerating at the said speed in trying to pass a slower car and in doing so, he passed the continuous centre line on the road, but was then braking immediately. He apologised for his lapse,” according to a statement released by the organisers.
He was charged with breaking Article 151c of the FIA International Sporting Code, which states; ” Any fraudulent conduct or any act prejudicial to the interests of any competition or to the interests of motor sport generally.”
As a result, he was given a suspended one rally ban, valid for the next six rounds of the championship. The penalty can also be imposed retroactively, meaning he could face disqualification from Rally Sweden if he were to commit a similar offence during said rally. Any speeding offence where he goes over twice the speed limit will trigger the penalty. He was also handed a fine of €1400 for his actions.
