Mosley confirms not to stand for re-election

In a letter to all the clubs' presidents, FIA president Max Mosley has confirmed that he will not stand for election in October when his current term ends. Despite the many encouraging letters urging him to reconsider, he claims his decision is final.

He begins his letter as follows: "Since my announcement on 24 June that I ws not going to seek re-election, I have received almost 100 messages from FIA member clubs urging me to think again. This absolutely unprecented level of support is very rewarding and I am deeply grateful."

He continued by mentioning that largely thanks to his deputy president Nick Craw, an agreement has been reached for Formula One that brings newteams and reduces costs "which were so urgently needed". In addition, the FIA have now also secured "satisfactory contracts for the World Rally Championship and the new World Championship for GT cars. In addition, a new structure is evolving on the mobility side which I believe will greatly strengthen the FIA in this area."

"Therefore, with there arrangements in place, I have decided to reconfirm my decision. I will not be a cendidate in October.

At the same time however, Mosley immediately points to Jean Todt, former CEO of Ferrari to be the next FIA president.

"Jean is unquestionably the outstanding motor sport manager of his generation. Teams run by him have won the World Rally Cahmpionship, Cross Country rallies including Paris-Dakar, the Le Mans 24 Hour Race and, in the last 15 years, one Formula One World Championship after another."

"If he agrees to stand, I think he would be the ideal person to continue but also to extend the work of the past 16 years. He can be relied on in all areas where the FIA is active. I very much hope you will give him your support."

Interestingly, Mosley's announcement comes only one week after Ari Vatanen moved forward as a candidate for the presidency in October, ousting himself as the candidate for change, rather than a continuation of Mosley's tenure.