Formula One's governing body has said it will take no action against former Ferrari engineer Nigel Stepney for his part in a spy scandal, although it has warned teams it may be inappropriate to employ him.

Ferrari sacked Stepney after accusing him of passing data to suspended McLaren chief designer Mike Coughlan and attempted sabotage.

Last year McLaren were stripped of their constructor points and fined £50 million because of the data affair.

"As Mr. Stepney is not a licence-holder of the FIA, no formal action may be taken against him under the International Sporting Code (though the FIA is co-operating with the Italian police, who are investigating Mr. Stepney's actions)," the FIA said in a statement.

"As a matter of good order, the FIA recommends to its licensees that they do not professionally collaborate with Mr. Stepney without conducting appropriate due diligence regarding his suitability for involvement in international motor sport. This recommendation stands until 1 July 2009."

The statement also said Stepney had admitted being involved and had apologised to the FIA, although he disputed the seriousness and extent of his involvement.

Italian police and a prosecutor in Modena, Ferrari's home province, are conducting a probe into the scandal. Stepney has been interviewed by prosecutor Giuseppe Tibis and police questioned senior McLaren staff at their British homes last month.

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