Felipe Massa Seeks $82M Crashgate Damages Over 2008 F1 Title Loss

Felipe Massa is pursuing $82 million in damages through UK courts over the 2008 'Crashgate' scandal, where Renault deliberately ordered Nelson Piquet Jr. to crash the Singapore Grand Prix, leading to a Safety Car that benefited Fernando Alonso and ultimately cost Massa the 2008 World Championship to Lewis Hamilton by a single point. Massa's lawsuit targets former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone, the FIA, and Formula One Management, following Ecclestone's 2023 comments admitting he and then-FIA president Max Mosley were aware of the manipulated race but chose not to act to avoid a scandal. Massa emphasizes the importance of accountability to prevent future fraud and demands a just outcome for himself and the sport. Ecclestone denies any cover-up and questions the validity of Massa's legal case, dismissing it as an absurd farce. The High Court hearing is scheduled for October 28, with Massa represented by Nick de Marko KC. The scandal has had lasting repercussions, including Renault's punishment and ongoing debates about the integrity of the 2008 championship outcome.