In yet another setback for the embattled FIA president Max Mosley, it has emerged that his deputy has actually been appointed the governing body's official representative for next weekend's Monaco grand prix.

The development means that Mosley, set to face a confidence vote of the FIA senate early next month, will be conferred little more status than a mere spectator, as rumours continue that other paddock residents will attempt to avoid the scandal-gripped Briton.

The British newspaper The Daily Mail claims that the Monaco royal family, the Grimaldis, made it clear that Mosley - caught recently in a sadomasochistic romp with five prostitutes - is not officially welcome at F1's marquee event.

Measures will reportedly be in place to keep the parties apart in the paddock and on the grid.

It has emerged that Marco Piccinini, the Paris body's deputy president, will in fact be the official FIA representative for Monaco, despite Mosley's scheduled attendance.

It is also believed that Mosley, 68, will not attend the post-race gala dinner, or the podium ceremony.

A spokesman for Monaco's Royal Palace confirmed to The Times newspaper that there is "no question" of Prince Albert meeting with Mosley.

"We have just been informed that Mr Marco Piccinini will represent the FIA at the Monaco grand prix," he said.

"The Prince will only meet the official representative of the FIA, but maybe Mr Mosley will come as a private person to the grand prix," the spokesman added.

Source: GMM