The FIA has declared that the controversial diffuser designs used by Brawn GP, Toyota and Williams are legal – rejecting an appeal from rival teams.
The devices were originally protested in Melbourne, where the stewards ruled that they were within the regulations.
Ferrari, BMW Sauber, Red Bull and Renault remained unconvinced and appealed the decision, but after a hearing in Paris yesterday, their arguments have been rejected.
“The FIA International Court of Appeal has decided to deny the appeals submitted against decisions numbered 16 to 24 taken by the panel of the stewards on 26 March at the 2009 Grand Prix of Australia and counting towards the 2009 FIA Formula One World Championship,” said an FIA statement.
“Based on the arguments heard and evidence before it, the Court has concluded that the stewards were correct to find that the cars in question comply with the applicable regulations.”
Brawn GP chief Ross Brawn had mounted a robust defense of his position.
“We didn’t consider this to be a radical new design. It was an innovative approach of an existing idea, and Formula One is all about innovative design. It’s a cornerstone and objective of the sport,” he told Press Association.
The third round of the F1 season takes place in Shanghai this weekend with other teams now having to play catch-up on the all-conquering Brawn.
After a 1-2 in Australia with Button and Rubens Barrichello they lead the constuctors’ championship ahead of Toyota.
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