Ferrari demanded that Barrichello let world championship leader Schumacher overtake him in the final few yards to the steal the race - to the outrage of fans.

But because team tactics are allowed, motorsport's governing body, the FIA, said it could only punish the team for their actions on the podium after the Grand Prix had finished.

In the face of boos from the crowd, Schumacher pushed Barrichello to the top step on the podium and handed him the winner's trophy after the race on 12 May.

This embarrassed the Austrian prime minister, who was awarding the trophies.

The FIA said it was "with some reluctance" that it could take no action on team orders.

It said in a statement: "The FIA condemns the way in which the Ferrari team gave and carried out its orders at the Austrian Grand Prix.

"However we feel it is impossible to sanction the two drivers, because they are bound by their contracts to carry out the team's orders.

"The FIA is fully aware that teams can decide which of their drivers will win the race as part of their overall quest for the world championship title.

"The FIA is unable, therefore, to sanction any of the Ferrari drivers for following team orders at the Austrian Grand Prix."

FIA president Max Mosley said the organisation could not deduct points for the breach of protocol on the podium.

This was because "the World Council felt it was wrong to impose a sporting penalty for what was administrative or procedural misconduct," Mosley said.

"To deduct points would have been like awarding a penalty in a football match because the players did not line up properly to meet dignatories before the match.

"The two things are not related."

Ferrari will have to pay half of the amount immediately, with the other half suspended for one year.

This means that if there is any repeat in the next 12 months, they will be liable to pay the remainder of the fine.

Some commentators had expected a points deduction for Schumacher or even a ban after the Austrian result sparked outrage worldwide.

The German driver is well on course for the drivers' title. with a 46-point lead after winning six of this season's nine races, with two second places and one third.

No other driver has managed to win two races.