Diffuser row blows up in Melbourne

The latest turmoil surrounds the design of the rear diffuser on the cars belonging to Williams and Toyota, and most notably, Brawn GP.

The remaining seven teams all believe their three rivals have built a far bigger diffuser - a device that aids airflow at the back of a car - than the new regulations allow.

Brawn GP, Williams and Toyota have apparently taken the stance that their interpretation of the rulebook is different, and therefore their designs are legal.

However, Brawn GP and Toyota in particular were noticeably quick in pre-season testing, raising eyebrows and leading to questions about their diffusers.

With the season-opening Australian Grand Prix just four days away, there is the prospect of a protest looming on Wednesday once the cars have been put through scrutineering.

Renault boss Flavio Briatore recently voiced his concerns, with his sentiments echoed earlier this week by Ferrari team principal Stefano Domenicali.

"We are convinced that certain interpretations that have been applied do not correspond to the nature of the rules," said Domenicali.

"If that extractor is illegal then it must not be used, while if it is legal it's up to the other teams, including us, to try to adapt as soon as possible, because performance is found in that area of the car."

Domenicali is hoping the situation does not come down to a protest, adding: "There needs to be a great sense of responsibility on everyone's part. I hope this issue can be resolved beforehand."