Japanese Grand Prix: Money concerns scourge of Lotus
British-based constructor Lotus endured less than ideal preparation for this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka after their freight arrived late and they were locked out of their own hospitality tent.
Some of the freight, including the pool of Mercedes engines, only arrived in the paddock yesterday afternoon, while cash-flow problems have been cited as the reason for issues with their hospitality unit.
Lotus are set to appear in court for a third time on Monday over an unpaid tax bill amid mounting money concerns. A protracted takeover from Renault is yet to be confirmed.
“It does not mean we can’t fight for podiums this weekend,” said Lotus driver Romain Grosjean yesterday. “Look at Spa, we had bailiffs in the garage but we ended up on the podium.”