Sauber Breaks From Ferrari Rivals

The team, whose Malaysian-sponsored Petronas engines are built by Ferrari, said they distanced themselves completely from a statement headed "nine teams record their disappointment regarding Ferrari testing activities".

Sauber said the unsigned document, handed out at the Malaysian Grand Prix on Friday, had been issued "without the prior approval of some of the aforementioned teams."

The statement criticised Ferrari, who are not party to any testing agreement after a rift with the other teams, for testing during the week of a Grand Prix and also for rejecting invitations to limit testing.

"Ferrari's actions not only potentially destabilise Formula One and increase costs but also provide Ferrari with an unequal advantage over all other teams," it said. "Inevitably, such actions on the part of Ferrari can only increase costs within Formula One and undermine the principle of a 'level playing field' in the sport."

Sauber lined up with the other teams over testing restrictions in Brazil at the end of last season after previously siding with Ferrari. McLaren boss Ron Dennis suggested the Swiss-based team had been leant on this time.

"Peter's position is very clear and we respect it," he said. "When it comes to an issue such as this, he isn't able to support it in public."