In yet another setback for the embattled FIA President Max Mosley, it has emerged that his deputy has actually been appointed the governing body's official representative for next weekend's Monaco Grand Prix.
This development means that Mosley, who is set to face a confidence vote of the FIA senate early next month, will be little more than a spectator, as everyone in the paddock attempts to avoid the scandal-gripped Briton.
The British newspaper The Daily Mail claims that the Monaco Royal Family, the Grimaldis, made it clear that Mosley - allegedly caught recently in a sadomasochistic romp with five prostitutes - is not officially welcome at F1's marquee event.
Measures will reportedly be in place to keep the parties apart in the paddock and on the grid.
Marco Piccinini, the Paris body's Deputy President, will in fact be the official FIA representative for Monaco. It is also believed that Mosley, 68, will not attend the post-race gala dinner, or the podium ceremony.
A spokesman for Monaco's Royal Palace confirmed to The Times newspaper that there is 'no question' of Prince Albert meeting with Mosley. "We have just been informed that Mr Marco Piccinini will represent the FIA at the Monaco Grand Prix," he said. "The Prince will only meet the official representative of the FIA.
Congratulations to Lewis Hamilton on becoming Formula One World Champion 2008.
After a rollercoaster season of F1 races, steward's enquiries, appeals and a few crazy moments. The F1 Driver's Championship comes to the final race today at Interlagos in Brazil.
Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo is keen for the FIA to change the rules regarding team orders in Formula One.
Fernando Alonso won the Japanese Grand Prix. After driving a perfect race to follow up on his win in Singapore.
