Investigation towards the speculation of sabotage and espionage involving Nigel Stepney may have a link in the suspension of an unidentified McLaren Senior member

The season is heating up as Ferrari is trying to make a mid-season challenge to close the gap on McLaren. An epic battle is expected between the two giants. Unfortunately, problems behind the scenes may just veer the focus away from the anticipated epic battle in the races to come.

Around two weeks ago, Ferrari accused their employee Nigel Stepney of sabotage and espionage. The Italian based team mentioned evidence like the suspicious powder material found in the days leading to the Monaco Grand Prix. The squad is also speculating that Stepney was leaking information to other manufacturers for a price. Currently, Stepney had just been sacked by Scuderia as confirmed by Luca Colajanni.

To further complicate the matter, McLaren now seems to be involved in the issue. In a statement issued July 3rd, the team reported:

"McLaren became aware on the 3rd July 2007 that a senior member of its technical organisation was the subject of a Ferrari investigation regarding the receipt of technical information. The team has learnt that this individual had personally received a package of technical information from a Ferrari employee at the end of April.

Whilst McLaren has no involvement in the matter and condemns such actions it will fully co-operate with any investigation. The individual has in the meanwhile been suspended by the company pending a full and proper investigation of the matter.

No further comment will be made."

The identity of the suspended senior member has yet to be determined. It is possible that this statement is connected to the case involving Nigel Stepney in Ferrari. However, the new statement might also be a separate case altogether.

Nigel Stepney denies all accusations against him. Current suggestions iterate that the Briton plans to sue Ferrari when he gets back to Italy after his holiday in the Philippines. Ferrari Team Principal Jean Todt however mentioned that Ferrari has the evidence to prove unlawful behavior against the former Ferrari employee.

It is a shame that certain issues have surfaced during an important phase of the season. The battle between the top two teams is heating up. Lewis Hamilton is maintaining his streak of consistency, Ferrari seems to be back on the pace and Kimi Raikkonen is back into form to make a possible four-way battle for the driver’s championship. Hopefully, the investigations surrounding the key teams and personnel won’t get in the way of the racing.

The next GP is scheduled July 8, 2007 in Silverstone Great Britain.