BAR to Race without Tobacco Branding

Owners British American Tobacco said the team had decided to drop the Lucky Strike branding normally displayed on the car.

"While British American Tobacco are aware of recent efforts by the (British) government to clarify the position regarding tobacco branding, we had made a decision to run unbranded at the race on advice we had at that point," a statement said.

Legislation coming into force in Britain outlaws all print advertising, radio advertising and event sponsorship by tobacco companies from midnight on Sunday.

It could allow for prosecution of any British-based team if images of a race where tobacco sponsorship is carried are broadcast in Britain.

BAR are one of four teams with tobacco sponsorship. The others are British-based Jordan (Gallaher), Renault (Japan Tobacco) and Italy's World Champions Ferrari (Phillip Morris).

British-based McLaren ended their long association with German cigarette brand West on Friday.

The Hungarian Grand Prix itself is sponsored by Phillip Morris brand Marlboro.