DPA

Monte Carlo, Dec 7: Renault have escaped punishment despite being found guilty of being in possession of technical secrets leaked from rival Formula One team McLaren.

The International Automobile Federation (FIA), at a World Motor Sport Council hearing in Monaco Thursday, found Renault in breach of F1 regulations of having McLaren data in their possession.

However, the sport's governing body opted to impose no penalty on the former world champions. No explanation was given for the decision by the FIA.

A statement said Renault was found to be in breach of article 151c of the International Sporting Code but it was decided that no penalty would be imposed.

Reports have suggested the ruling could see Fernando Alonso, who won the F1 world title with Renault in 2005 and 2006, return to the team.

The spying affair was the second this year to affect F1.

In September, McLaren were fined a record $100 million and excluded from the 2007 drivers' championship after the team was found to be in possession of leaked technical information from rivals Ferrari.