Lotus Racing and Proton in court

Tony Fernandes bought the name "Team Lotus" from James Hunt's brother, David Hunt. This name, which became independent of the British manufacturer, saw its operating license terminated by the Malaysian manufacturer Proton, which became the owner of the famous English brand. Following Lotus Racing's announcement that it would revert to the "Team Lotus" name in 2011, Proton responded by signaling that they would do everything possible to prevent Lotus Racing from achieving its goals.

« We have created a new stable of F1 this year under the Lotus Group license, and we wanted to revive the Team Lotus name, but we couldn't do it in 2010 because the rights belonged to Team Lotus Ventures », indicated the team director, Riad Asmat. “ But Team Lotus Ventures having since been bought by Tune Group, we will be able to use the name Team Lotus from 2011. Since the Lotus Group wants to object, we will take the opportunity to clarify the subject. »

In other words, Team Lotus has launched legal proceedings in the High Court of England in order to counter Proton's plans. If justice rules in favor of Lotus Racing, Tony Fernandes' team will become entirely independent from the Lotus Group. “ These discussions around the license are off topic, it was only an operating license linked to a sponsorship season with Proton », Specified Rias Asmat. “ With Group Lotus terminating the license agreement, we are turning a new page. Discussions are expected to be ongoing between Proton and Group Lotus to finalize this licensing agreement. »

The whole affair concerns the owner of the Team Lotus name, claimed by Proton and David Hunt. Justice will have to establish who owns the legendary name of the brand. “ It's funny how after creating a promising F1 team, everyone claims their share of the spoils “, commented Tony Fernandes. “ But the facts will be able to be revealed in broad daylight, and shareholders and the government will thus know the truth. »