FIA reveals letter sent to McLaren drivers

Fernando Alonso, Lewis Hamilton and test driver Pedro de la Rosa were asked to present any evidence they had relating to the ongoing spy investigation in the light of the FIA becoming aware of an email exchange about Ferrari set-up information.

As autosport.com revealed yesterday, the drivers were offered an amnesty from punishment if they cooperated - and warned that they faced 'serious' consequences if they withheld information.

The letter said: "You will appreciate that there is a duty on all competitors and Super Licence holders to ensure the fairness and legitimacy of the Formula One World Championship. It is therefore imperative that if you do have any such information, you make it available to us without delay.

"I can confirm, given the importance of this issue, that any information you may make available in response to this letter will not result in any proceedings against you under the International Sporting Code or the Formula One regulations. However, in the event that it later comes to light that you have withheld any potentially relevant information, serious consequences could follow."

It is understood that de la Rosa and Alonso responded to the FIA's request for information earlier this week, providing the evidence that resulted in a new World Motor Sport Council hearing being convened.