Those who are confused with the situation regarding the relationship between tobacco and Formula One, will be further mystified by the announcement on Saturday that Philip Morris, the company which owns Marlboro, has signed a new deal with Ferrari, which lasts until 2011.

At a time when tobacco is supposed to be phased out of F1, and indeed all other sports, the news means that the 38 year relationship between the two continues, even though, to all intents and purposes, it is virtually illegal.

The number of races where cars can run with tobacco branding is strictly limited, and appears to diminish on a weekly basis, therefore it remains to be seen how those involved will circumvent the law. That said, making full use of 'grey areas' and pushing the rules envelope has become a fine art in F1.

"The sponsorship is going to comply with the rules and regulations wherever we do business," said Tommaso di Giovanni, Philip Morris International spokesman, said on Saturday. "There are countries where tobacco sponsorship is obviously not allowed. In those countries we will continue to support Ferrari without branding."

Talking of the deal following Sunday's race, Jean Todt said: "We know how the evolution of the tobacco rules are evolving in the European Community and in the world, and we will always respect the rules.

"Notwithstanding that, they will remain partners with us until the end of 2011. When it's possible we will have branding on the cars; if it's not possible we will not have it."