BAR had hoped to have tobacco advertising in Budapest

The team had been hoping to have its usual Lucky Strike branding for Sunday's race but opted against it following British Government advice.

A statement from the team said: "We had made a decision to run unbranded at the race on advice we had at that point."

BAR had feared prosecution in Britain, where the ban comes into force on Sunday, if they had proceeded.

The Tobacco Advertising and Promotion Act makes anyone responsible for the promotion of a tobacco brand in the UK liable to prosecution.

In theory the new ruling means no pictures - either electronic or print - of an F1 car with tobacco branding can be used in the UK.

And the legislation, which enforces a European Union directive, could allow for prosecution of any British-based team if images of a race where tobacco sponsorship is carried are broadcast in the country, even if that race is outside the EU.

Three other Formula One teams have tobacco sponsorship: Jordan, Renault and Ferrari.

And the Hungarian Grand Prix is sponsored by Marlboro.