Jackie Stewart's remarkable 40-year relationship with Ford is at an end.

The relationship, which began in 1964, when the Scot was recruited to promote the American giant's products in the UK, resulted in three World Championship titles, and Stewart becoming a global ambassador for the company.

Following his decision to sell his F1 team, Stewart Grand Prix, which was powered by Ford engines, to the American giant, which in turn re-branded it as Jaguar, the Scot remained part of the programme.

The decision to end the relationship is mainly due to Ford's decision to withdraw from Formula One, however it's also believed that there was a certain amount of bad feeling after it was discovered that Stewart was touting The Royal Bank of Scotland as a potential sponsor to a number of Jaguar's rivals.

It is almost certain the bank will be revealed as WilliamsF1's sponsor when the driver line-up and new team colours are unveiled next month.