FIA confirms date for secret F1 testing hearing

F1's governing body has confirmed a June 20 hearing date for the 'testgate' saga.

We first reported the June 20 date on Saturday, following rumours in the Montreal paddock that the FIA wanted to fast-track the international tribunal so that the matter is cleared up before the next race, at Silverstone ten days later.

A statement issued by the Paris-based federation said "charges" have been sent to Pirelli and Mercedes with their summons to the Place de la Concorde at 9.30am.

"The decision ... will be published as soon as possible after the hearing," the FIA added.

There was a general consensus in Canada last weekend that Mercedes will be penalised for breaking the sporting regulations, but former F1 engineer Joan Villadelprat is not so sure.

"What I am sure of," he wrote in a column for El Pais newspaper, "is that Ross Brawn would not have used this year's car without assurances from the FIA.

"I know Ross very well, I worked with him for many years, and I am convinced that he has a written document signed by the parties responsible for the FIA to justify their (Pirelli and Mercedes') actions.

"I'm also sure it was Pirelli who asked for this season's car to be used, because it (the 2013 Mercedes) was the one having the most problems (on this year's tyres)," added Villadelprat.

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