Tobacco advertisement will be illegal within four years if the European Union get their way, but not if the Tobacco companies can help it. British American Tobacco and Rothmans have launched a legal campaign to prevent this from happening.

The chief executive of the Tobacco Manufacturers' Association, David Swan, said: "This is totally unjustified and we will vigorously challenge the basis on which these restrictions to a legal product are being introduced."

The Australian Grand Prix will keep the possibility of showing tobacco livery on the cars up until Albert Park looses it's Grand Prix rights - although tobacco sponsorship will be banned from all other sports in Australia in 2006.

Health Minister Michael Wooldridge stated: "Tobacco is the No.1 killer in Australia, claiming some 18,000 lives each year. I am not comfortable giving any exemptions to sponsorships linked to the biggest cause of disease and death in our community. We'll enjoy these events even more once they are free of tobacco sponsorship."

Director Robert Burton of the Anti-Cancer council agreed: "Most sports are already prospering with new sponsors, Formula One can do the same".