When using images provided by a team or sponsor, members of the media have to formally agree that the pictures will not be used other than for editorial purposes nor will they be used commercially, 'doctored' or passed on to a 'third-party'.

With just over four - yes 4 - weeks to go before the 2005 season gets underway, it's interesting to note that Ferrari's media website has now added another clause to its copyright agreement:

Ferrari's case-by-case prior written authorisation is not required for the reproduction of photographs relating to F1 and Ferrari GT cars in general, provided:

a) that any such use/reproduction is not for commercial purposes; and

b) the use and reproduction comply with the laws governing tobacco advertising in force in each country.

Ahead of the busiest season in Formula One history, which just happens to coincide with the introduction of the European Union's anti-tobacco legislation, many within the media are totally in the dark as to how the new laws will affect them and F1 coverage.

We have already heard stories of TV broadcasters concerned that they might be heavily fined for bringing images into our homes of cars featuring tobacco advertising, leading to claims that TV coverage could be blocked. Meanwhile the rest of the media is unsure as to where they stand.

Last year, French newspaper L'Equipe experimented with photographs of F1 cars with their tobacco signage 'smudged out', needless to say they looked horrendous.

Needless to say, as we wait for guidance as to what we can and cannot use, when it comes to pictures of F1 cars wearing tobacco signage, we wonder will the same laws apply to old pictures of historic cars, such as Emerson Fittipaldi in the JPS?

This might sound crazy, but that is exactly where the media stands at this moment.

And the warning on the Ferrari website reinforces this.