British American Racing has instigated a formal legal challenge against the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) concerning the introduction of a new rule, which requires each Formula One team to run its cars in substantially the same livery at each Grand Prix. British American Racing believes this inhibits its commercial freedom when dealing with potential sponsors.

Papers have been filed to initiate an arbitration, challenging the authority of the FIA to introduce such a rule. It is hoped that the arbitrators will issue their findings by mid-January 1999.

"We have tried to explore every possible avenue to resolve the matter and avoid taking this course of action," said Craig Pollock, Managing Director of British American Racing. "Unfortunately, the FIA did not give us any other option and we have therefore initiated formal legal proceedings.

"We have already clearly demonstrated that we will do everything possible to be a serious contender in Formula One and therefore have no choice but to take all legal steps available to protect our interests and those of our sponsors."