Red Bull could have gained significant advantage with 'minor overspend' - Martin Brundle

Former Formula 1 driver Martin Brundle wants to see the FIA be more severe in their punishment of teams that overspend, as it's a much bigger advantage than it may seem.

F1's governing body implemented a $145 million budget cap last year for all teams competing in the sport to offset the financial pressure the coronavirus pandemic put on the global economy.

On Monday, Red Bull was found guilty of a "minor overspend" last season, and could therefore face a points deduction or a fine.

The FIA classifies a minor overspend as 5% above the budget cap, which is $7.25 million.

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A big advantage

Brundle was shocked to hear that a breach of over $7 million could be considered minor, as he says it's enough to gain a significant advantage over other teams who abide by the rules.

"What seems crazy to me is that a minor breach can be up to 5% overspend on the cost cap at $7m. We know that's a massive upgrade on a car, maybe even a B-spec for some teams," he said on Sky Sports' Any Driven Monday show.

"So that needs tightening up for starters, because what's the point in having 140 million, whatever the number ends up being, and then having this 5% variance?

READ: Red Bull guilty of overspending in 2021, but Verstappen will likely keep championship

"So I'm assuming that the FIA will have to crack down hard on any minor breaches, but it looks like it could be a reprimand or a fine. Will they want to revisit points? Will it be manufacturers' points or drivers' points for 2021?

"Other teams are saying, 'well look, this gives you a head start into '22, the cars are carried over for '23, so this is a big advantage'."

He added: "It needs tightening up