Ferrari uses F1 cars for political message in India

Ferrari has waded right into a political debate by vowing to display the flag of the Italian navy on its formula one cars in India this weekend.

The famous team said the move is "in the hope that the Indian and Italian authorities will soon find a solution" to a situation involving two Italian sailors.

Media reports said the sailors were being held by Indian authorities on murder charges, following the fatal shooting of two Indian fisherman mistaken for Somali pirates.

So far, the regional Indian governed has refused to agree a settlement while Rome pushes for the marines’ return for prosecution in Italy.

In return, Italy has recalled its envoy from New Delhi, confirming its "strong displeasure" with India’s handling of the incident.

Italian foreign minister Giulio Terzi welcomed Ferrari’s support, and is quoted by La Gazzetta dello Sport: "This shows our naval guards that they have the support of the entire nation."

Article 1 of the FIA statues says F1’s governing body "shall refrain from manifesting racial, political or religious discrimination in the course of its activities and from taking any action in this respect."