Sirio Pipe Update

We have spoken to a number of key figures here in the pits regarding the pipe controversy that broke late last night. The problem surrounds Sirio’s latest version of the Sirio #2611 exhaust pipe and in partictular the position and design of the stinger.

We asked Sirio boss Andrea Rossi for his position on the situation and his reply was brief saying that there appears to have been a communication breakdown with IFMAR regarding the submitted drawings for the new pipe design. IFMAR claim to have not recieved any submission for the changes. Rossi says they will revert to the older spec design for the #2611 pipe. Sirio will use the same pipe as used in qualifying but with a new stinger fitted and this will now be tested in the lower finals in the car of Davide Gallesi to see how it performs.

Novarossi who unearthed the problems with the pipe spec are very disappointed with how the matter has been dealt with and say it sends out bad signals for the sport. Novarossi plan to issue a full statement regarding the matter after the event but say they have no more confidence in those running the sport. We will bring you that statement as soon as we get it.

One other manufacturer made the comment that the descision is bad for the sport and in particular the privateer drivers who may get disqualified for a very small techincal infringement like a body shell being 1mm too low yet leading professional drivers can run an exhaust that doesnt meet the rules and yet the result stands.

A leading driver who was at the IFMAR 1:10 section meeting last night says the exhaust controversy may be a blessing in disguise as it looks like it may lead to a big shake up in the sport and see big changes in the standardising of the rules and a more professional approach being taken in the running of rc racing.

We will bring you more news as it unfolds.