The drama of almost six months has finally wound down with the FIA ruling that McLaren did indeed receive the documents it was purported to have received. The ruling also goes on to fine McLaren a record $100 million. The only respite came in the form of drivers retaining their points and still being able to fight for the title which increasingly looks to be slipping from Ferrari’s grasp.

The landmark ruling by the FIA was made after almost eight hours of deliberation during which Ron Dennis was questioned and Lewis Hamilton also appeared as a ‘character witness’ in favour of Dennis. One person conspicuous by his absence, though, was defending world champion Fernando Alonso who instead chose to be in Belgium and concentrate on this weekend’s race.

With regards McLaren’s fate in the 2008 season, the FIA ruled that McLaren’s MP4-23, the car they will field next year, would be examined in detail by an independent body and if found to be including any intellectual property of Ferrari, McLaren would be stripped of all points for the next year as well.

Following is a transcript of the FIA ruling:

In an extraordinary meeting of the World Motor Sport Council was held in Paris on the 12th of September 2007, The following decision was taken:

* Points gained by other teams so far this season will not be affected.
** No McLaren representative will be allowed on the podium should a McLaren driver win in any of the remaining races of the 2007 season.

Ferrari, meanwhile was quick to issue a statement in favour of the FIA ruling:

Ferrari acknowledges the decision of the FIA to sanction Vodafone McLaren Mercedes for its breach of Article 151c of the International Sporting Code.

Ferrari is satisfied that the truth has now emerged.

Harsh or not, the verdict does seem to be fair based on evidence that even pointed to the fact that there was knowledge beyond Mike Coughlan within McLaren of Ferrari’s plans.