• Lotus naming row
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Group Lotus appeal rejected

ESPNF1 Staff
June 23, 2011 « 'Medium like hard compound' - Massa | »
Both cars continue to carry the Lotus name in Formula One © Sutton Images
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Group Lotus has been denied the opportunity to appeal against the court ruling allowing Team Lotus to continue using the Lotus name in Formula One.

On May 27, following a long court hearing, Justice Peter Smith delivered a judgement declaring Team Lotus as the rightful owners of the Team Lotus name and therefore able to continue using it in Formula One, while Group Lotus was adjudged to have the sole rights to use the Lotus name on its own in the sport.

After the verdict both sides claimed victory, although Group Lotus immediately signalled its intention to appeal.

Sarah Price, Head of Legal, Group Lotus plc said at the time: "Despite the detailed judgment there are issues which still require clarification and we remain committed to obtaining this much needed clarity for the many fans of the Lotus marque - we are extremely grateful for their continued support. The decision to appeal has not been taken lightly."

The intention to appeal was an attempt to overturn the decision to allow Team Lotus to use the name in the sport, but it now appears that the application for permission to appeal has been rejected, as Team Lotus owner Tony Fernandes announced on Twitter.

"Great day for Team Lotus in court. Interim costs awarded to us. Application for permission to appeal by Group Lotus rejected by Justice Smith," Fernandes said.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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