The FIA has announced that it will appeal against the recent decision by a French court to overturn Flavio Briatore's lifetime ban from motorsport.

A brief statement issued today reads:

"The President of the FIA has consulted the FIA Senate and the FIA's lawyers about the decision of the Tribunal de Grande Instance de Paris of 5 January. It was unanimously agreed that an appeal would be prepared."

The sport's governing body insists that pending the appeal Briatore's ban will remain in place however, the sanction which bans drivers managed by the Italian being granted super-licences will be lifted during this time.

In light of last week's ruling the FIA also says that it is working on a new disciplinary procedure which will address the issues given in the judgment.

"In his election campaign last summer, FIA President Jean Todt and his team announced that new measures for constructive change, including a disciplinary procedure, would be introduced. Work on this is well advanced. Once in place, this will address the issues in the Court’s judgement. Nonetheless, an appeal is merited." said the FIA statement.

"The FIA President, the FIA Senate, the World Motor Sport Council, and the FIA's Member Clubs from all countries will take whatever measures are necessary to ensure the continuing integrity and safety of the sport.".