A protest threat could mar next weekend's grand prix in Monaco.

Already this year, there have been allegations that Ferrari is pushing the limits of legality with regards to the oil consumption and mirrors of its 2018 car.

Now, rivals are considering lodging official protests against the Ferrari battery next time out at Monaco, according to Auto Motor und Sport.

The report alleges that Ferrari may be getting more than the allowed four megajoules of energy from its battery by bypassing a sensor, translating into 20 horse power.

"The alleged trickery is so complicated that FIA engineers are struggling to understand it," said the publication.

However, key rival Mercedes wants the FIA to act much more quickly with regards to figuring out if the Ferrari is legal.

"Any race in which grey areas remain grey can be a lost race," said team chairman Niki Lauda.

"The FIA has to clarify these unanswered questions by the race in Monte Carlo."

Ferrari trail leaders Mercedes by 27 points going into next weekend's race.