Team name changes approved

The F1 Commission has approved the name changes put forward for the 2012 season concerning Lotus, Renault and Virgin.

Lotus, Renault and Virgin to have new titles in 2012

The F1 Commission has approved the name changes put forward for the 2012 season, with Lotus, Renault and Virgin all changing their titles. The lengthy dispute over the Lotus name has been brought to an end, with Team Lotus becoming Caterham and Lotus Renault GP now to be known merely as Lotus. Renault had already featured Lotus branding and a black and gold livery on their cars but have now obtained exclusive ownership of the famous name. Team Lotus therefore change their name to Caterham, a British car maker that is owned by team boss Tony Fernandes. Virgin Racing have also opted to change their name and take the new title of Marussia, a Russian sportscar manufacturer, although Virgin branding is still expected to feature on the cars. The changes still need to be ratified by the FIA World Motor Sport Council on December 7 but there are not expected to be any further objections.