The BAR-Honda Formula One team are facing a desperate battle to race in Sunday's French Grand Prix after a court ordered both their cars to be impounded here on Thursday.

It is understood that the team is being pursued for three million dollars, a debt allegedly dating back five years.

After a local court backed the company's claim, a bailiff backed by five police officers arrived at the circuit. It was then decided to impound the cars of Jacques Villeneuve and Jenson Button.

The machines were moved back from the BAR garage to the team's lorries and the doors of the transporters were sealed on the court's orders. A ruling on whether BAR can take part in Sunday's race is due to be handed down by the court on Friday.