Team personnel were not allowed to unpack the team's freight or continue work on preparing the cars, by officers who were stationed at the front and rear of the garages.

Images of the security staff were widely distributed on social media, but suggestions that team equipment had been confiscated were wide of the mark.

A team spokesman confirmed that the team was dealing with the situation – which related to an unspecified 'commercial arrangement' – and there was no reason to suggest the team would not be ready for track action on Friday.

Tight finances

Lotus has faced a number of financial difficulties this season, as the team battled to keep its head above water amid ongoing negotiations with Renault about a takeover.

In Hungary, the team was late in getting hold of its tyres following delays in a payment to supplier Pirelli.

In Belgium, the team's trucks were impounded following a legal dispute with former test driver Charles Pic, while in Japan Lotus was locked out of its hospitality unit because of unpaid bills.

Discussions with Renault are ongoing and the team remains hopeful that a deal for the French car manufacturer to resurrect its work outfit will be completed soon.