Daniel Abt has issued an apology after he admitted to using a stand-in driver for Saturday’s Formula E Race at Home Challenge.
The German, who represents Audi, has failed to record a single point in the first four races of the eight-round virtual competition.
On Saturday Abt qualified second and went on to finish third in the race. However his webcam was obscured during the event and he failed to show up for the post-race interviews, prompting some to suggest he was cheating.
“Really not happy here because that was not Daniel driving,” said Stoffel Vandoorne. “He messed up everything. That was ridiculous, really ridiculous.”
Abt went on to admit to the allegations and issued an apology and offered to make a charitable donation.
“I would like to apologise to Formula E, all of the fans, my team and my fellow drivers for having called in outside help during the race on Saturday.
“I did not take it as seriously as I should have. I am especially sorry about this, because I know how much work has gone into this project on the part of the Formula E organisation.
“I am aware that my offence has a bitter aftertaste, but it was never meant with any bad intention. Of course, I accept the disqualification from the race. In addition, I will donate 10,000 Euros to a charitable project.”
It’s not known whether Formula E itself, or Abt’s Audi Sport Abt Schaeffler team will take any further action. Both have been contacted for comment.
