A few weeks ago, Renault F1 was accused of fixing the race result for the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix. They reportedly ordered their number 2 driver, Nelson Piquet Jr., to crash in order to aid their number 1 driver, Fernando Alonso. As it so happens, Piquet did crash and Alonso won. This latest F1 controversy has been labeled "Crash Gate."

Last month, Piquet was let go from the team and replaced by reserve/test driver Romain Grosjean. Shortly after being fired, the accusation was made that Piquet was ordered to crash.

A hearing was set to delve into the accusation, find the truth, and reach a verdict (should one be needed). Renault, on behalf of team principle Flavio Briatore and chief engineer Pat Symonds, began legal proceedings against Piquet and his father, claiming defamation, false allegations, and attempted blackmail. However, information only available to the FIA was leaked to the media which indicated that the accusations were true.

Today, it was released that Briatore and Symonds have "left the team." Now, it's difficult to tell whether they left voluntarily or if they were forced out (or anything in between). Either way, it sounds like an admission of guilt (NB: of course, I have a different perspective when it comes to guilt and being forced out). Many in the media are speculating this is the case. Renault F1 aren't saying anything more.

This all sounds very much like the "Spy Gate" scandal that plagued McLaren two years ago. Similar things happened with the McLaren employees accused of spying—they were let go, and it was thought that this was done by the team to show that they were ridding themselves of an illegal element and making an attempt to correct the situation. Again, that's what's being speculated by the media with regard the Renault. McLaren came away with the biggest fine ever handed down in Formula 1. They were excluded from the championship that year.

My hope is that Renault F1, who face heftier allegations, come away from their hearing next week no better than McLaren did two years ago. I wouldn't know what to think if they do.