Brunner: I've never copied anything - ever!

Former Toyota F1 designer Gustav Brunner has reacted angrily to rumours this week that he may be implicated in the ongoing row between Ferrari and the Cologne-based squad over alleged use of stolen software.

Two former Ferrari employees are facing charges of theft after software went missing from the Maranello concern, and Brunner's name has cropped up when it transpired that he may have used the programmes to design the 2003 and 2004 Toyota F1 cars. The veteran penman, however, vehemently denies the allegations.

Former Toyota F1 designer Gustav Brunner has reacted angrily to rumours this week that he may be implicated in the ongoing row between Ferrari and the Cologne-based squad over alleged use of stolen software.

Two former Ferrari employees are facing charges of theft after software went missing from the Maranello concern, and Brunner's name has cropped up when it transpired that he may have used the programmes to design the 2003 and 2004 Toyota F1 cars. The veteran penman, however, vehemently denies the allegations.

"I've never copied anything in my life," he told SportAutoMoto magazine, "'I don't really understand how and why this is all coming out now - and it is something that annoys me greatly. This issue will be cleared."

Brunner could be joined in the dock by former team boss Ove Andersson and aero chief Rene Hilhorst, a rumour being furthered by the recent departure of all three from the Toyota team.

"I was told that I had ten minutes to collect my things," he revealed, hinting that he had been given no reason for his sudden exit, other than that his position had been 'rendered obsolete'.

Read More