Sir Jack Brabham and his family have left open the door to legal action after it emerged that a company aims to take their famous surname back to the formula one grid in 2010.
Following media reports, it was confirmed officially on Thursday that a German automotive supply company, Formtech, now controls the Brabham Grand Prix Ltd moniker and has filed an official team entry for next year.
Former triple world champion Brabham, an Australian who is now 83, founded the outfit in 1960 and it later raced under Bernie Ecclestone's stewardship.
But the Brabham family on Thursday clarified that it is "in no way involved" with Franz Hilmer's new Brabham Grand Prix Ltd outfit, and nor was it consulted about the plans.
"The family is taking legal advice and will take necessary steps to protect their name, reputation and its goodwill," read a statement.
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Isn't that the final say? They have ownership of the name and can do what they like with it now?