FIA elections [Archive] - CASC Ontario Region Message Forums

Adam Lipcsey

07-16-2009, 11:08 AM

Todt seems to represent the Mosley-traditions.
I do not want him then:

Todt will stand for FIA presidency

By Jonathan Noble Thursday, July 16th 2009, 12:02 GMT

Former Ferrari team principal Jean Todt has confirmed that he will stand for the presidency of the FIA later this year.

Just 24 hours after outgoing president Max Mosley endorsed Todt as the ideal candidate to replace him, the Frenchman has confirmed that he does intend to put himself forward for election.

He is the second candidate to put himself forward, with former world rally champion Ari Vatanen having announced his campaign last week.

Speaking about his decision to stand and revealing the key figures behind his bid, Todt said: "Following the decision of Max Mosley not to seek a further term of office and his unequivocal support of my candidacy, I have written to the FIA membership to inform them that I wish to stand for the presidency of the FIA.

"It is my intention to continue and expand the outstanding work of President Mosley, who for 16 years has worked tirelessly to strengthen the FIA's major motorsport championships and to position the FIA as the voice of the motoring public, actively promoting safe, clean and affordable mobility for all.

"Given the unique structure of the FIA and its twin roles in sport and mobility it takes more than a president to run the organisation and I am delighted to announce my leadership team.

"For the position of deputy president for mobility I would propose Brian Gibbons, chief executive of the New Zealand Automobile Association; for deputy president for sport I would propose, Graham Stoker, chairman of the Council of the UK's Motor Sports Association; and for president of the Senate I would propose Nick Craw, president of ACCUS and the current FIA deputy president (sport).

"I am confident that together we will offer the FIA the opportunity to elect a dynamic leadership team of outstanding experience and commitment. "

Mosley revealed his preference for Todt as the man to replace him in a letter to FIA member clubs on Wednesday, confirming that he was going to step down when his current term expires in October.

"Jean is unquestionably the outstanding motorsport manager of his generation and arguably of any generation," wrote Mosley.

"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."

Todt's bid to stand as FIA president is likely to generate controversy in F1 - coming just weeks after teams suggested that they would prefer an 'independent' candidate who did not have any previous links to teams.

Furthermore there have been times throughout his Ferrari tenure, particularly during the numerous team orders controversies involving Michael Schumacher, that Todt earned fierce criticism from fans and media for putting his team ahead of the sport.

slucas

07-16-2009, 11:28 AM

Smax & Todt have had more back room dealings than you can shake a stick at. These would have been at the FIA or Ferrari offices , not at Smax' favourite "back room" ... just to clarify.
Todt is stuffed full with personal agendas. What kind of step forward is his selection as FIA prez going to make?
Get ready for the same old used to be.

TheJuggernaut

07-16-2009, 12:03 PM

Sorry for being ignorant but can someone explain to me what the big deal about the FIA is? Why do F1 teams care and why does the FIA have any bearing on F1-specific rules (beyond normal governing body regulatory stuff, like safety equipment and driver licensing)? F1 rights belong to Bernard, not Mad Max. FIA doesn't own the racetracks - what prevents F1 from running on its own, why must the FOTA make their own series if they don't like things?

Adam Lipcsey

07-16-2009, 01:55 PM

Adam Lipcsey

07-17-2009, 11:09 AM

Vatanen unhappy at Mosley stance

By Jonathan Noble and Pablo Elizalde Friday, July 17th 2009, 14:15 GMT

Former world rally champion Ari Vatanen has criticised the manner by which Max Mosley has gone public in his support for candidate Jean Todt in the future FIA presidential elections.

Mosley announced earlier this week that he was to step down from his current role at the end of October. In his letter explaining the reasons behind the move, he also said that the best man to replace him would be Todt.

Vatanen has questioned the ethics of such a move, and thinks that it proves that Todt will merely be representing the 'old era'.

"Although I have criticised the FIA strongly, I have never aimed it at Mosley personally," Vatanen told Spanish newspaper AS.

"But it's not good that a leader stays in the post for a long time, and when that happens, the best thing is a change. And I represent that change, a new era with more freshness.

"On the contrary, Jean Todt represents the old era, and it's not right that Max wants to impose a new leader, and that he uses the power of the federation to support his campaign. The FIA is not a kingdom; it's a republic where the leaders are chosen democratically.

"At Ferrari they don't want Todt to be president, and so they have told me, because they think they sport would lose credibility. The same would happen if it was Ross Brawn or Flavio Briatore running. The president of the FIA must be someone neutral."

vinnie mack

07-22-2009, 04:24 AM

Jackie Stewart..

Adam Lipcsey

07-22-2009, 08:16 AM

Jackie Stewart..

He is sound of reason most of the time, but he probably wants to remain above the crap level than to lower himself to the position.

Adam Lipcsey

07-22-2009, 08:19 AM

John Powell

07-22-2009, 02:36 PM

Why is the FIA writing this letter during campaigning?
It's evident who they don't want to be around:

http://www.fiafoundation.org/news/archive/2009/Pages/LetterfromtheChairmanoftheFIAFoundationtoMrAriVatanen.aspx

Writing it is one thing, but publishing it is another. If they had sent the letter in confidence, then I'd have no problem, but to publish it on their web site in the middle of an election campaign is unethical. Hmm, maybe they've been reading the Liberal party's election strategies. :p

tanney

07-22-2009, 02:40 PM

Writing it is one thing, but publishing it is another. If they had sent the letter in confidence, then I'd have no problem, but to publish it on their web site in the middle of an election campaign is unethical. Hmm, maybe they've been reading the Liberal party's election strategies. :p

Don't you mean the federal Conservative party?:)

Adam Lipcsey

09-10-2009, 10:30 AM

One Canadian national authority is backing Vatanen.

Is this CAA or ASN Canada?

What is ASN Canada's position?

From autosport.com:

Vatanen receives backing from clubs

By Matt Beer Thursday, September 10th 2009, 14:20 GMT

A group of 14 FIA member clubs has come out in support of Ari Vatanen's bid for the FIA presidency.

The national motoring authorities of Australia, Germany, Finland, Canada, Uganda, Jamaica, Netherlands, Sweden, South Africa, Ireland, Jordan, Peru, Switzerland and Turkey have written to fellow clubs expressing their backing for Vatanen, and urging others to add their support.

"We firmly believe that FIA needs a spokesman who has a willingness and ability to address with respect and enthusiasm all the various stake holders of mobility and sport," said the letter.

"The unique background of Ari Vatanen includes his years in the European Parliament, to which he was elected from two countries (Finland and France). During his dramatic and successful, humanly touching career in rallying he became a world champion.

"As a spokesman for the federation in the present day world, where media attention and diplomacy with various stake holders is becoming more and more vital, Ari comes across as an ideal candidate for all who want to create a future in the spirit of fair collaboration."

The clubs believe the forthcoming election is a chance to make major changes to the way the FIA is run at the end of current president Max Mosley's reign.

"Over the past years, the FIA has grown considerably and gained enormous influence," said the letter. "Max Mosley has strengthened our federation for more than a decade and achieved a great deal.

"But in our view, also less positive aspects have gradually manifested themselves, in particular with regard to the structure and governance of the FIA, making it preferable to seek change in order to be well prepared for the future.

"The democratic and secret ballot provides the chance to give the vote to the candidate of your choice. Ari and his team follow their values, democracy and transparency. That is why they are not coming with any lists telling the clubs who they should vote for the remaining seats of the World Motor Sport Council. It is up to the clubs to decide according to the statutes.

"The team is also not buying votes with nomination promises to different motorsport commissions either. The best people shall be elected to these places without undue politics.

"We among many other clubs decided to place our trust in Ari Vatanen."

slucas

09-10-2009, 11:39 AM

He's the head of the CAA. He wanted Smax to resign after his dealings last year.
Go Ari.
I don't recall our ASN having a stance.

MitS

09-10-2009, 02:08 PM

I don't know what he knows about dealing with politics but I know Vatanen has clangers.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKgeCQGu_ug

Adam Lipcsey

09-14-2009, 08:02 AM

Jackie Stewart's opinion, taken from autosport.com:

Stewart asked to run for FIA presidency

By Jonathan Noble Monday, September 14th 2009, 11:37 GMT

Jackie Stewart has revealed that he was asked by a senior Formula 1 figure if he would consider standing for the FIA presidential election this year.

The three-time world champion has long been critical of the current FIA regime and, on the back of Ari Vatanen and Jean Todt putting their hats into the ring, Stewart has said he has come under pressure from individuals in the sport to join the battle for the top job in the governing body.

Although there are suggestions that one of the individuals who asked him to stand was Bernie Ecclestone, Stewart has refused to confirm the identity - but has made it clear he has no interest in joining the contest.

"First of all I am 70 years of age," he told AUTOSPORT about why he decided not to listen to the pressure to stand. "I think that you have to bring in a considerably younger person.

"My view is that nobody [for the job] should be taken from the cockpit, the garage or the pitlane from Formula 1 – although I think there is an enormous desire for change.

"I don't think that the FIA will change much if Jean Todt gets in, because I think that regime will stay the same. I would be worried about the chances of Ari winning, but I think that [him winning] would be the right thing for the sport."

He added: "I think the sport desperately needs change – when you see what happened with a 100 million dollar fine, when you see what happened to Ron Dennis, when you see what is happening with Flavio Briatore.

"If you see what happened in all of those cases, of Ron Dennis being removed and maybe Briatore being removed, all of this laundry being done in public and being fed and leaks being sent out, it is all very unfortunate and that does not spell good corporate governance.

"To change that would take a minimum of five or 10 years of my life, and that is too long. I still think to this day that there must be sufficient change to radically alter the manner in which the sport is run, because in my view this paddock is ruled by threat and fear – even the media. That is wrong."

When asked if he could confirm the identity of the person who asked him, Stewart said: "I cannot tell you that...but it was somebody quite important."

Adam Lipcsey

09-23-2009, 08:28 AM

From autosport.com:

Mosley predicts less friction if Todt wins

By Jonathan Noble Wednesday, September 23rd 2009, 12:04 GMT

Max Mosley believes Formula 1 teams should expect a period of less confrontation with the governing body if Jean Todt wins next month's presidential election.

Ahead of Todt's first visit to a grand prix in Singapore this weekend since announcing his bid to become FIA president, Mosley is predicting great things from the Frenchman if he beats former world rally champion Ari Vatanen to the job.

"Jean will do a much better job than me in many, many ways," said Mosley, who has publicly endorsed Todt's bid to become president. "And in some ways he will upset the F1 teams less because he probably won't come up with the next big idea.

"He will make sure it all runs like clockwork and is completely fair, honest, open and transparent - and that is what you need."

Todt has so far shied away from stepping in the public spotlight since announcing his bid to become president, but is due to visit the F1 paddock in Singapore - as well as meet the Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA).

And although there remain question marks about his suitability to the role, on the back of his ruthless imposition of team orders in the Paris-Dakar and when he was Ferrari team principal, Mosley thinks that those controversies do not damage his ability to be a good president.

"All of those things Jean did were within the rules, as they were at the time, and were in the best interests of his team," said Mosley.

"The thing about Jean is that when he was Peugeot he was 100 per cent Peugeot. When he was Ferrari he was 100 per cent Ferrari. And when he is FIA he will be 100 per cent FIA.

"There will be no old ties or loyalties to Ferrari, or Peugeot or Citroen. He will be totally down the line. And that is the good thing about him. He is absolutely open, absolutely honest. Sometimes he upsets people because he says it as he sees it. He is not a politician in telling people what they want to hear - and that is what we need."

Mosley has revealed that Todt has always been his preferred candidates to succeed him – and that he only stayed on in recent years while waiting for the Frenchman to be free of commitments elsewhere so he could stand.

"I completely wanted to stop in 2004 which is why I resigned then," he said. "But it became clear that the most likely replacement was going to be someone totally unsuitable.

"I had it in mind since before then to suggest to Jean Todt that he should do it, because he is the only person on the horizon who has got all the necessary experience, knowledge and great managerial ability.

"But he was, at that point, becoming CEO of Ferrari, so he had a day job. So I really had no alternative but to continue, although it was against my will.

"Then I would have liked to have stopped halfway through 2007. But when it was coming onto my radar screen there was the McLaren thing, so I couldn't walk away from that."

When asked for comments about Todt's rival Vatanen, Mosley said: "Ari keeps complaining, and has done it several times, that I should be neutral and not favouring Jean.

"But he has forgotten that at the end of June, when I announced that I was standing down, he called me up and said, 'can I come and see you?' So I invited him to lunch.

"He came to lunch on July 3 and said he was going to stand, and asked me if I would support him. I said I couldn't support him as I promised to support Jean.

"I said, 'I will be very honest. I think Jean is a much better candidate. You have no experience, you have never run anything, you've not been in charge of even the smallest organisation, you have no concept of what it is like. You didn't even run your own rally car, you had a co-driver to do that.'"

I cannot believe what I am reading!
What's this guy's integrity? (Answer: nothing.)
If I were the FIA voting member I would automatically disqualify anyone Mosley supports!

Steven Scala

09-23-2009, 09:37 AM

I wonder how the Canadian arm of the FIA will vote? I wonder how one could find out?

As far as the sporting side is concerned, published histories note that our ASN was set up and staffed with Ecclestone's personal influence, FWIW. This staff is still largely in place after two decades, during which the nation's several driving championships have been reduced -for one reason or another - to one, and at times zero. Presumably, karting and the Canadian GP have been the organization's main internal foci during the time. It would be unfair for me to assume whether this all implies 'automatic' Mosley support or not, and equally unfair for me to assume whether there's been any communication on the matter with regions or clubs. I just don't know.

As for CAA, I'd expect them to let common sense prevail and vote Vatanen.

Sorry for being ignorant but can someone explain to me what the big deal about the FIA is? Why do F1 teams care and why does the FIA have any bearing on F1-specific rules (beyond normal governing body regulatory stuff, like safety equipment and driver licensing)? F1 rights belong to Bernard, not Mad Max. FIA doesn't own the racetracks - what prevents F1 from running on its own, why must the FOTA make their own series if they don't like things?

Conversely to that, do the FIA's World Driving Championship and World Manufacturer's Championship really need to be tied exclusively to a single, highly specialized and exclusive race series? I'd suppose that the manufacturers, member clubs and motorsport independents might all be better served if this weren't the case.

Adam Lipcsey

09-23-2009, 09:58 AM

It is well documented fact that to tie the whole international motorsport calendar and marketing to Formula 1 was Ecclestone's idea and that Max Mosley - Ecclestone's buddy and attorney - was the partner in the 'legistlative" seat to make sure it was carried out.

That the FIA is into race promotions and marketing while being the sanctioning body, should have never ever happened.

And this is why it is imperative that nobody Mosley supports and would carry the status quo should win the elections.

Mosley, as lame duck president, his opinion is irrelevant.

slucas

09-23-2009, 12:58 PM

Please read;

http://www.pitpass.com/fes_php/pitpass_feature_item.php

Adam Lipcsey

09-23-2009, 01:50 PM

Please read;

http://www.pitpass.com/fes_php/pitpass_feature_item.php

That's exactly it. Right on.

I would like to add to the list the banning of Renault's mass damper system mounted inside the nose of the car, under being "a movable aerodynamic device" - a complete hogwash alibi.
Today, F1 cars have front wings with driver operated moving elements!

Adam Lipcsey

09-23-2009, 02:02 PM

Arab oil money is backing Mosley / Todt:

http://www.pitpass.com/fes_php/pitpass_news_item.php?fes_art_id=39077

Adam Lipcsey

09-24-2009, 07:57 AM

This article shows the process and mentality how an old boy's club, such as the the FIA and within that the World Motorsport Council makes decisions on penalties.
It is completely arbitrary, no rules, works only by who you know and who you like:

Ecclestone: Briatore ban too harsh

By Jonathan Noble Thursday, September 24th 2009, 08:11 GMT

Bernie Ecclestone thinks Flavio Briatore's lifetime motorsport ban for race fixing was too harsh - but believes the former Renault team principal could have avoided it by owning up to what happened.

Just days after the FIA announced that Briatore would be banned for an indefinite period from any involvement in FIA-sanctioned series for his part in the Singapore Grand Prix race fix, Ecclestone spoke out against the severity of the punishment.

Speaking during a media event with F1 partner LG Electronics in Singapore, Ecclestone said he believed it correct that Renault were given a two-year suspended ban, but that the punishment for Briatore went too far.

"If you look at it sensibly, the people at the top had not the slightest idea," said Ecclestone. "The people in the Renault F1 team had not the slightest idea.

"There were three people who knew what was going on and that is it. No one else was involved. Those people have been dealt with – in my view quite harshly in [regards to] Flavio. I don't think it was necessary, but I was on the commission so I am probably just as guilty as anyone else. On reflection it wasn't necessary."

He added: "It was too much. Definitely too much."

However, Ecclestone suggests that Briatore could have avoided such a draconian penalty if he had owned up to his involvement in the plot – as Renault's former director of engineering Pat Symonds did prior to being handed a five-year motorsport ban.

"Firstly he [Flavio] was invited to appear [in front of the World Motor Sport Council] and his lawyers wrote and said the FIA have no jurisdiction as far as he is concerned, which was probably right.

"But it was not the right thing to say. It would have been just as easy to go – to say: 'I was caught with my hand in the till, it seemed a good idea at the time, and I am sorry.' There is an organisation that works very, very well on that idea – where the people go to a box and confess..."

He added: "Honestly, I am a friend of Flavio's. He has just handled the whole thing badly. He could have handled it in a completely different way, and they would have said, ‘you were a naughty boy' and that would have been the end of it."
Ecclestone also suggests that Briatore would be wise to avoid taking the matter to civil court if he is unhappy with the punishment.

"It would be stupid of Flavio to do that. He should ask to be heard by the court of appeal," he said. "He should appeal to the FIA. If he goes to a civil court I don't think he would win. Because the FIA would have to defend and somebody will say that he sent a young guy out to what could have been to his death. So it wouldn't go down too well."

Ecclestone also revealed that his friendship with Briatore had been strained by the events of recent days.

When asked for his opinion on how Briatore was handling what had happened, Ecclestone said: "He's not talking to me, I don't know. He thinks I should have defended him, which I couldn't."

slucas

09-29-2009, 07:29 AM

more on the FIA;

www.pitpass.com/fes_php/pitpass_feature_item.php

Adam Lipcsey

10-01-2009, 02:54 PM

Fixed links to articles, all are good read:

http://www.pitpass.com/fes_php/pitpass_feature_item.php?fes_art_id=39184

http://www.pitpass.com/fes_php/pitpass_feature_item.php?fes_art_id=39164

http://www.pitpass.com/fes_php/pitpass_feature_item.php?fes_art_id=39076

John Powell

10-01-2009, 11:28 PM

more on the FIA;

www.pitpass.com/fes_php/pitpass_feature_item.php

The link didn't work for me.

Here's another one on Vatanen: http://www.pitpass.com/fes_php/pitpass_news_item.php?fes_art_id=39180

John Powell

10-02-2009, 12:41 PM

Looks like this election is getting a bit dirty. I got this from a CMSHG chat e-mail:

Max Mosley, the president of world motor sport's governing body, the FIA, appears to have suggested member clubs voting for Ari Vatanen in next month's presidential election can expect to be marginalised under a Jean Todt regime.

By Tom Cary, F1 Correspondent
The Telegraph, 2 Oct 2009

In an astonishing letter to HRH Prince Feisal Al Hussein, the Jordan Motorsport chairman and one of Vatanen's nominations for vice-president, Mosley also states categorically that the Finn "will lose the election and lose badly".

The letter, seen by Telegraph Sport, caused an uproar when it was circulated among FIA member clubs attending Thursday's extraordinary motoring conference in Amman, which was hosted by Prince Feisal and attended by Vatanen.

Mosley's tone was said to have caused offence to Prince Feisal, and was described as akin to International Olympic Committee president Jacques Rogge writing to the Princess Royal to question how she votes for his successor.

Mosley, who was writing to explain why he would not be attending the conference, warned that Vatanen's fierce criticism of FIA governance, which the Finn has described as "stagnant", would have serious repercussions for those who back him.

"Any thought that, after the election, everyone can unite and work together can now be forgotten," Mosley said. "It is not possible to make statements like Vatanen's and then expect the victims of insults and untruths to forget what has been said.

"Vatanen will lose the election and lose badly, not least because he chose to denigrate the FIA and those currently in office rather than run a constructive and civilised campaign."

It is believed the Middle Eastern voting bloc, comprising 44 of the 182 total votes, may now request that the FIA employs an independent body to monitor the election on Oct 23.

Prince Feisal, the brother of the ruling King Abdullah, is understood to be particularly offended since he handed Mosley the chance to make his first public appearance following last year's tabloid sex scandal by making him the guest of honour at the inaugural WRC Rally Jordan. That was after Bahrain's crown prince had shunned the FIA president.

He said in his welcome address on Thursday: "Jordan has always maintained a strong relationship with our president, so I am deeply disappointed by the content and the insinuations of his letter which have raised serious questions as to the credibility of the forthcoming and future elections."

Mosley's tone may indicate that the election race is closer than previously imagined. Three-time Formula One world champion Sir Jackie Stewart, who made a speech at yesterday’s conference, described Mosley's missive as “a letter of fear”. It is certainly indicative of a wider struggle for votes in the Middle East.

Todt's nomination of Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the president of the Automobile and Touring Club for United Arab Emirates, as one of his vice-presidents has gone down badly with some Arab nations and it is believed ben Sulayem has received calls from sheikhs in Abu Dhabi asking him to withdraw from the presidential race rather than shame the Arab community by going up against Prince Feisal, a member of a ruling royal family.

Ben Sulayem was at Thursday's conference, where he became involved in a heated discussion after he claimed that the FIA "would know which way" motoring clubs voted on Oct 23.

Mishaal Al Sudairy, chairman of the Saudi Arabia Motor Federation, told Telegraph Sport that he believes Vatanen now has the support of 80 per cent of Arabic countries while the Finn's camp also believe they have strong support in the Eastern European voting bloc.

Marsh

10-02-2009, 01:27 PM

So maybe if we vote for Vatanen ASN Canada will die and we can form a body that it actually aware of it's member's existence?

Adam Lipcsey

10-05-2009, 09:08 AM

So maybe if we vote for Vatanen ASN Canada will die and we can form a body that it actually aware of it's member's existence?

The Canadian position is already an interesting one.

CAA publicly stated that they support Vatanen.

If ASN Canada would follow, it would be good, but it would spite its parent, Mr. Ecclestone, who prefers the status quo, therefore Todt.
Therefore, if ASN Canada decides to support Todt, there would be an embarrassing schism within the country.

Adam Lipcsey

10-14-2009, 10:38 AM

Latest installment:

http://www.pitpass.com/fes_php/pitpass_feature_item.php?fes_art_id=39293

shamrock

10-14-2009, 03:41 PM

So maybe if we vote for Vatanen ASN Canada will die and we can form a body that it actually aware of it's member's existence?

So true. So true. sigh.

shamrock

10-14-2009, 03:46 PM

"Any thought that, after the election, everyone can unite and work together can now be forgotten," Mosley said. "It is not possible to make statements like Vatanen's and then expect the victims of insults and untruths to forget what has been said."

......so thats the threat and yes it is. Who cares what they think. the truth hurts? They'll all be gone.

"Vatanen will lose the election and lose badly, not least because he chose to denigrate the FIA and those currently in office rather than run a constructive and civilised campaign."

...and thats another threat. If you criticize (not denegrate) you will lose. What, are the results going to be fixed then?"

Talk about acting like your royalty. Thats just astounding.

Adam Lipcsey

10-15-2009, 10:26 AM

FIA officials lobby for Todt - report
Racing series F1
Date 2009-10-15

By Motorsport.com/GMM

After Max Mosley publicly voiced his support for FIA presidential candidate Jean Todt, the neutrality of F1's governing body has now been further called into doubt.

The Paris based federation will next Friday stage a democratic election to name Mosley's successor as FIA president, with 1981 world rally champion Ari Vatanen also standing for office.

But according to the Daily Telegraph in Britain, Mosley is not the only high ranking FIA incumbent who is pushing for former Ferrari boss Todt to be elected.

The newspaper has published excerpts of leaked emails showing that FIA director general Peter Doggwiler, and FIA Foundation director general David Ward, have been actively lobbying on the Frenchman's behalf.

One email from Doggwiler is to key sympathisers, advising them "I will call you this week to see where we are so I can make an adequate report to Jean".

An email from Ward reveals he has had conversations "regarding a more intensive lobbying strategy", and indicates his involvement in the formation of Todt's cabinet, while another includes an attachment of Todt's campaign announcement, seeking amendments to the text.

Some of the emails originate from FIA Foundation email addresses, and the Telegraph indicated that the Charity Commission Direct is "sure to take a dim view of Ward's actions".

A leading sports lawyer Oliver Hunt, meanwhile, is quoted as suggesting a "breach of neutrality" may have been committed by the FIA.

"I'm not qualified in French law but my understanding of the basic legal requirements for any election process in France is that there is an overriding duty of neutrality," he said.

Adam Lipcsey

10-15-2009, 11:59 AM

From autosport.com:
FIA Foundation head defends Todt role

By Matt Beer Thursday, October 15th 2009, 15:21 GMT

FIA Foundation director general David Ward has denied suggestions that he has acted inappropriately in expressing his support for Jean Todt in the forthcoming presidential election.

The Daily Telegraph newspaper quoted leaked emails from the head of the Foundation - a charitable organisation technically independent from the FIA, and which features both Todt and Ari Vatanen as trustees - in which he discusses strategies for lobbying in Todt's favour, and discusses edits of the Frenchman's policy documents.

Robert Darbelnet, head of the American body the AAA, originally wrote to the Foundation to express his concern at Ward's actions, and enclosed copies of the correspondence in question.

"If the Foundation's resources have been used to support an FIA election campaign, such activities are unlikely to be viewed as in furtherance of the charity's objects," Darbelnet wrote.

"It could also confer an unauthorised private benefit on a trustee and create a reputational risk for the Foundation."

The FIA Foundation said it "will be addressing these issues" in a statement on its website, and also published emails from Ward in which he insists his work for Todt's campaign is separate to his duties with the charity.

"Trustees may not be aware that I am employed by the Foundation for four days a week," Ward wrote. "In my spare time, on a voluntary basis I have been helping Jean Todt develop his candidacy policy agenda and providing advice to his campaign but not take any public position.

"My assistance has not involved use of the Foundation resources. Indeed I have been careful to avoid this occurring and as you know I proposed that we delay decision taking on grant applications made by FIA clubs until after the election."

But Darbelnet has already suggested that he feels the question of whether Ward was working for Todt's campaign while on Foundation duties could be irrelevant.

"Even if all this occurred on personal time and without the use of any Foundation resources whatsoever, the tone of the communication in attachment B, if true, raises serious ethical questions," he wrote.

Well, Mr. Ward, by helping to develop Todt's agenda in your spare time, you are indeed taking a public position, Sir!!

It is astunding how much corrupt behaviour is surfacing during this election having been done by current FIA officials! It is their way of life!
The sport is in the wrong hands for sure!

John Powell

10-15-2009, 05:52 PM

I wonder if the powers that be at ASN-FIA Canada are reading these posts and other threads on this topic. It's fairly obvious that most ordinary members of ASN clubs in Ontario want a clean sweep of the cabal that's currently screwing up the sporting side of FIA, but then, when has the ASN ever listened to ordinary members? :rolleyes: :mad:

Adam Lipcsey

10-16-2009, 08:10 AM

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/79471

Herein lies the contradiction and the conflicting view of the FIA if you compare the two quotes.

Mosley to Vatanen:
"I am surprised you seek to criticise me for supporting the other candidate," Mosley wrote. "You joined me for lunch on 3 July 2009 and repeatedly asked me to support you. You will recall I told you then I would support Jean Todt, as I thought him the better candidate.

"This was not a reflection on you, merely recognition that, in my view, Jean has relevant knowledge and experience while you do not.

The FIA (Mosley) to Vatanen and Todt in a separate letter:
In addition to publishing the two letters, the FIA has also urged Todt and Vatanen to take a positive approach to the final week of campaigning ahead of next Friday's election.

"The FIA will be calling on all candidates to avoid negative campaigning and prejudicial leaks to the media," said a statement on the governing body's website.

"Candidates should focus on the positive aspects and opportunities of the upcoming election and its effect on motoring and motor sport."

Adam Lipcsey

10-16-2009, 08:18 AM

Vatanen's letter to Mosley:
http://www.fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/FIA/2009/Documents/av_letter_to_fia.pdf

Molsey's reply letter to Vatanen:
http://www.fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/FIA/2009/Documents/fia_letter_to_av.pdf

Adam Lipcsey

10-16-2009, 01:24 PM

Vatanen seeks court help for election

By Jonathan Noble Friday, October 16th 2009, 15:16 GMT

Ari Vatanen has applied to the Tribunal de Grande Instance de Paris for it to impose measures on the FIA to ensure that next week's presidential election is fair and transparent.

Amid increasing tension between motor racing's governing body and Vatanen about the forthcoming vote, the FIA issued a critical statement on Friday claiming that the former world rally champion's latest move had brought undue negative publicity.

The governing body claimed that the checks and balances already in place were more than enough to ensure that the forthcoming vote could take place without any doubt about the election's democratic integrity.

"Mr Ari Vatanen, one of the candidates for the FIA Presidency, has today served on the FIA an application to the Tribunal de Grande Instance de Paris, asking the Court to impose a number of measures for the FIA election," said the FIA statement.

"Had Mr Vatanen troubled to examine the procedures in place, he would understand that these in fact already provide more safeguards than those he is asking the Court to impose.

"The FIA is therefore at a loss to explain the purpose of this legal action, if not merely to generate further negative publicity and to attempt to raise doubts about the honesty of FIA staff. This is despite the fact that a large team of FIA personnel has worked continuously over recent months to ensure that the new FIA President is elected in a dignified and democratic way.

"The FIA has retained a public official (a Huissier de Justice) to supervise the electoral process and the count. On 15 October the FIA circulated a note to all voting members outlining in detail the election process to be deployed and the role that the Huissier will play. This is available to download in the governance section of the FIA website.

"This legal action follows a number of allegations made by Mr Vatanen to the media which attempt to call into question the integrity of the FIA's personnel and the FIA's election process. However, Mr Vatanen has not taken up an invitation to specify and substantiate his allegations."

The latest development comes following reports that the FIA has been doing all it can to ensure that outgoing president Max Mosley's preferred candidate Jean Todt wins the election.

As well as suggestions that FIA Foundation Director General David Ward has been lobbying for Todt in his spare time, leaked emails have also revealed that Peter Doggwiler,the FIA Motor Sport Safety Development Fund chairman, has also been petitioning clubs to help boost support for Todt.

Steven Scala

10-16-2009, 08:32 PM

Adam Lipcsey

10-19-2009, 08:49 AM

If you were gonna buy a vote in this election, how would you do it (http://www.casc.on.ca/forums/showthread.php?t=18047)? Dunno. Incidentally, I wonder how Emirates (http://www.casc.on.ca/forums/showthread.php?t=18039) will vote.

We already know how the UAE will vote because Bin Sulayem publicly stated that he will vote for Todt.
The interesting part about the FIA international race event calendar is that it will be published after the WMSC meeting, right after the voting taking place.

This week is THE most crucial one if you like/dislike (fact of life) racing politics!

slucas

10-20-2009, 01:18 PM

http://www.pitpass.com/fes_php/pitpass_feature_item.php?fes_art_id=39385

The picture it self says it all.

Adam Lipcsey

10-21-2009, 08:24 AM

On the FIA WMSC member candidacy list I see Roger Peart's name from Canada:

http://fialive.fiacommunications.com/en-GB/the-fia/governance/elections/Pages/wcamt_wmsc.aspx

40 nominees for 21 open berths on the Council.

Adam Lipcsey

10-21-2009, 10:16 AM

I went to the ASN Canada site and the latest news is from August 14. No metion of FIA elections taking place whatsoever. News is about lightning strikes (seriously!) and the rest about gokarting.
Pitiful!

Adam Lipcsey

10-22-2009, 01:08 PM

Analysis: Election day at the FIA

By Jonathan Noble Thursday, October 22nd 2009, 15:29 GMT

FIA presidential rivals Jean Todt and Ari Vatanen are both promising a governing body that will be more conciliatory than confrontational, but their opposing views on making change means Friday's election looks set to still be a defining day for the future of motorsport.

In one corner there is Todt, the former Ferrari team principal who has the backing of outgoing president Max Mosley and F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone. In the other is former rally champion Vatanen, who has more popular support at grass roots level and has campaigned on a ticket for big change within the FIA.

AUTOSPORT gives an analysis of the two men, what they stand for, and looks at what will change if they win Friday's ballot.

***

JEAN TODT'S AGENDA

CAMPAIGN WEBSITE: http://www.jeantodtandteam2009.com/

KEYWORD: Total commitment

OWN QUOTE TO SUM UP STYLE OF PRESIDENCY: "Teamwork"

STRENGTHS: Has assembled a strong team around him, and will devote his entire focus to the job in hand with the kind of ruthless efficiency he showed at Peugeot and Ferrari.

WEAKNESSES: Not the most popular of men with fans or the majority of F1 teams, following an often controversial tenure at Ferrari. Questions have also emerged about the nature of his campaign - amid allegations of lobbying from FIA officials and vote buying.

***

Todt's campaign has been meticulously run, having received the backing of Mosley before he even officially put forward his nomination. It has also been assisted by FIA's former communications manager Richard Woods.

Although some view him as a simple continuation of the Mosley regime, Todt insists he is his own man, and has promised a number of changes to the governing body if he is elected.

He wants to introduce world championship commissioners responsible for the day-to-day operation of each series - in a move that would allow the FIA president to reduce his direct involvement in categories and allow him to focus on more strategic management of the governing body.

Todt also wants to establish a Stewards' Review Group, to try and improve stewarding in the FIA's major championship. He also wants to introduce a separate Disciplinary Panel to carry out investigations, hold hearings and recommend penalties to the World Motor Sport Council.

He is also open to examining the need for reform of the FIA International Court of Appeal.

Todt believes his approach will be important for helping build a more positive image for F1, after a number of scandals that have dogged the sport in recent years.

"My team's approach will be based on consensus not confrontation," he said. "We will make the best use of the F1 Commission and will appoint a new F1 Commissioner to work with all the stakeholders in the F1 Championship.

"We want to further develop F1 so that it benefits all those involved, from teams to fans. As the regulator of a hugely competitive and technically complex sport we will also establish an independent disciplinary panel to investigate breaches of the rules and to recommend the most appropriate response."

***

ARI VATANEN'S AGENDA

CAMPAIGN WEBSITE: http://www.arivatanen.com/EN/ari-for-fia-president.html

KEYWORD: Change

OWN QUOTE TO SUM UP STYLE OF PRESIDENCY: "Fair. Like my hair!"

STRENGTHS: Keen to ensure FIA breaks with its past, and not afraid to ruffle feathers to bring about change. Would provide a clean split with the Max Mosley administration. He is also the fans' choice.

WEAKNESSES: His campaign has lacked the detailed policies of Todt's, and he stumbled when he falsely accused his rival of benefiting from using FIA private jets for campaigning. Does not have the kind of managerial and FIA experience that Todt has.

***

Vatanen's campaign is solely about change. He has expressed frustration at the controversies that the FIA has found itself embroiled in – and wants to bring about reform to the governing body. He will introduce working group committees to evaluate the best way forward.

His desire to bring about change, and the fact that he is open-minded about what is to be achieved, has left him open to accusations that he does not have detailed policies like Todt.

However, Vatanen has been unmoved by such criticisms – and has stuck by his belief that the best way to achieve the right change is to sit down and discuss ideas, not simply impose a will.

When asked by AUTOSPORT about what he would do to bring F1's focus back to the racing rather than the scandals, he said: "The answer to this is to have all of the members of the Formula 1 family sitting around a table and debating the future. This includes the media.

"Tell me, when was the last time the FIA asked for your ideas on the future of the sport? Come on, they haven't; if you criticise F1, you lose your pass. That's not the way. We all play a key part in making the sport more spectacular and more attractive to the masses.

"We can all have the input into unlocking the vast potential which remains in F1. Equally, that has to be combined with an independent judicial system that people have confidence in. When people don't have a fair say, we have seen that it can lead to the potential break-up of F1. We must learn from our mistakes."

***

TIME FOR CHANGE

Whichever candidate wins, it is clear there will be much to do to heal rifts within the FIA that have been caused by a sometimes bitter election battle for the top job within it.

When asked by AUTOSPORT what their first job would be if elected president, both Vatanen and Todt said it would be about moving forwards.

Vatanen said: "I would analyse all of the situations and then prioritise them to sort out one by one. You need clear analysis – without that, talk of what would be is empty words.

"There will be clear changes before the end of the year. It will not be business as usual for the FIA."

Todt added: "To thank the members of the FIA for their trust and support and begin the task of healing divisions created by some of the negative aspects of the election campaign."

Adam Lipcsey

10-22-2009, 01:15 PM

Q & A with Ari Vatanen

From autosport.com:

Thursday, October 22nd 2009, 15:35 GMT

The FIA will elect a new president in Paris on Friday, with either Jean Todt or Ari Vatanen to be picked as the man to take motorsport and motoring into the new decade.

This week AUTOSPORT asked each of the election candidates for his thoughts on his campaign, what he stood for and what he hopes to achieve in office.

In the interests of fairness to both sides, Vatanen and Todt were asked the same question and given the same opportunities to respond.

Here are their full unedited answers.

1. If elected president, what will be your first act in power?

Ari Vatanen: The first thing I would do would be to analyse all of the situations and then prioritise them ready to sort out one by one. After that, we will bring in the experts from the outside to act as consultants and make sure the job is done perfectly. You need this kind of clear analysis, without that, talk of what would be is empty words. There will be clear changes before the end of the year. It will not business as usual for the FIA.

2. What are your qualities that will make you a worthy FIA president?

AV: I have very big difficulties to say openly what my qualities are myself; this kind of thing shouldn't come form myself. But, I think life has given me credibility for this job.

3. What do you consider to be the single biggest challenge that the FIA faces during the next four years?

AV: We have to defend this mode of transport - the mode of transport which is chosen by more than a billion people. Automotive transport deserves and demands equal treatment with other modes of transport. We want more funding for the road infrastructure, which translates into saving more lives by reducing the number of road accidents.

We have seen when the mobility of people is enhanced, the standard of living inevitably follows. Mobility equals the eradication of poverty. That mobility also leads to an increase in technology and its through increased technology - not via reduced mobility – that we can answer the environmental question.

4. At the forthcoming UN climate change conference in Copenhagen, western democracies are almost certain to come under pressure to make significant reductions in CO2 emissions. What can the FIA do to improve motor sports's environmental credentials and ensure its long-term sustainability in the face of ever tougher 'green' regulations?

AV: Motorsport should always spearhead technology, wherever it can. And I am a very strong believer in technology; man has always underestimated it. Nanotechnology has given us steel that is 100 times stronger and six times lighter than before. And the medicine we take tomorrow is better than that of today – this is technology. It's through the innovations of motorsport that we will clarify the question of CO2 'pollution' to the public. Long term, motorsport and the technology involved in it will answer the question of automotive environmental sustainability.

5. In recent years Formula 1 has attracted widespread publicity for scandals such as spying and race fixing, what will you do as president of the FIA to get the attention turned back to the on-track action?

AV: I have answered this many times. The answer to this is to have all of the members of the Formula 1 family sitting around a table and debating the future. This includes the media. Tell me, when was the last time the FIA asked for your ideas on the future of the sport? Come on, they haven't. If you criticise F1, you lose your pass. That's not the way. We all play a key part in making the sport more spectacular and more attractive to the masses.

We can all have the input into unlocking the vast potential which remains in F1. Equally, that has to be combined with an independent judicial system that people have confidence in. When people don't have a a fair say, we have seen that it can lead to the potential break-up of F1. We must learn from our mistakes.

6. How can the FIA reconcile the desire to take motor sport into new markets while at the same time ensuring the traditional fan base does not miss out?

AV: The FIA is, by definition, international. We have to go to all continents. What happens in Africa? There is no grand prix, no round of the World Rally Championship; hey, there's not even the Paris-Dakar anymore. The market's capacity to pay for races has to be taken into account, but places like Africa cannot afford to pay the same – but must be represented. While we favour the emerging markets where the demography is working, we must maintain races where the infrastructure is already in place. We need a balanced approach, but we cannot ignore people anymore.

This leads to a bigger question of how the FIA is run. Right now, we don't know how the decisions are taken. This is wrong. We don't know where the money comes form and where the money goes. The FIA needs to be run like a public company, it needs complete transparency and accountability. When we have this, growth will inherently follow because people will have confidence in such an organisation taking F1 and the whole automotive family forward.

7. Are there any changes that you feel are needed in the structure of the FIA in order for it to operate more effectively in all areas, from running world motorsport to global mobility?

AV: All the building blocks are there. It's a question of our spirit. Do we have spirit of fair play in the FIA? It's not the case today. Fair play and justice is what we need. The rules are there, but we must not interpret them to the advantage of some and to the detriment of many.

8. Outgoing president Max Mosley was in power for 16 years, what lessons can be learned from the way he ran motor sport?

AV: Take his determination and the justice and democracy I will bring and this will make a good combination.

9. In one world sum up your style of presidency?

AV: Fair. Like my hair!

Adam Lipcsey

10-22-2009, 01:17 PM

Q & A with Jean Todt
From autosport.com:
Thursday, October 22nd 2009, 15:33 GMT

1. If elected president, what will be your first act in power?

Jean Todt: To thank the members of the FIA for their trust and support and begin the task of healing divisions created by some of the negative aspects of the election campaign.

2. What are your qualities that will make you a worthy FIA president?

JT: Strong leadership, teamwork, passion, loyalty and a total commitment to deliver on our policy priorities.

3. What do you consider to be the biggest challenges that the FIA faces during the next four years?

JT: We still face a difficult global economic situation and are challenged by issues such as CO2 emissions reduction and its impact on both motor sport and mobility. In developing countries there is a dramatic growth in vehicle ownership and this brings road safety and environmental challenges which must be addressed. Within the FIA we need to improve the synergies between mobility and sport.

4. At the forthcoming UN climate change conference in Copenhagen, governments around the world will face decisions to make significant reductions in CO2 emissions. What can the FIA do to improve motor sport's environmental credentials and ensure its long-term sustainability in the face of ever tougher 'green' regulations?

JT: The environment is a policy priority for our clubs, our sport and the entire automotive industry. The FIA and its membership have taken a leadership role on sustainability initiatives. Working closely with all the stakeholders, motor sport can set an important green agenda for the future. I will seek to encourage and enhance this approach.

More than ten years ago the FIA initiated an innovative carbon offset programme based on the emissions from F1 and WRC. More recently the Make Cars Green policy declaration and campaign have been supported by mobility and motor sport clubs throughout the world as well as drivers and teams in all the major world championships.

Through the new FIA commission for sustainability, through an expanded environmental remit for the FIA Institute and through technical working groups which include input from teams and manufacturers on socially relevant technologies we can help shape a greener future for our sport.

5. In recent years Formula 1 has attracted widespread publicity for scandals such as spying and race fixing, what will you do as president of the FIA to get the attention turned back to the on-track action?

JT: Controversy is often an unfortunate but inevitable consequence of the enormous global media and public interest in Formula 1.

My team's approach will be based on consensus not confrontation. We will make the best use of the F1 Commission and will appoint a new F1 Commissioner to work with all the stakeholders in the F1 Championship. We want to further develop F1 so that it benefits all those involved, from teams to fans. As the regulator of a hugely competitive and technically complex sport we will also establish an independent disciplinary panel to investigate breaches of the rules and to recommend the most appropriate response.

6. How can the FIA reconcile the desire to take motor sport into new markets while at the same time ensuring the traditional fan base does not miss out?

JT: We must recognise the importance of both the global reach of our sport to new markets as well as its heritage and traditional venues. We feel confident that we can, with the support of the teams, the promoters and the commercial rights holder, find the right balance.

7. Are there any changes that you feel are needed in the structure of the FIA in order for it to operate more effectively in all areas, from running world motorsport to global mobility?

JT: We have made a number of detailed proposals which we have set out in our policy agenda. These encompass the governance and statutes of the FIA as well as specific proposals for our mobility and motor sport activities. It is important that sport and mobility support each other and work together where they can. During the past 3 months of the campaign we have opened a dialogue with clubs all over the world and we need to keep this communication channel open so that the clubs, who are the FIA, have a real say in its future. In particular we want to give the regions greater input into the way the FIA operates and the priorities it sets and this means regular consultation. We will introduce constructive changes to the FIA whilst striving to unite its membership.

8. Outgoing president Max Mosley was in power for 16 years, what lessons can be learned from the way he ran motor sport?

JT: The FIA has achieved a great deal under Max Mosley's leadership. There have been huge improvements in the safety of the sport through a sustained focus on research, technology and developing new regulations. The lesson must be that you can achieve a great deal if you have the determination and are willing to put in the hard work. Having said that, Max has his style and I have mine.

9. In one word sum up your style of presidency?

JT: Teamwork.

Adam Lipcsey

10-22-2009, 01:34 PM

More analysis:
http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=349651

The recent Crash-gate scandal, and the way current FIA president Max Mosley has dealt with this and similar scandals in the past, combined with his inability to respectfully communicate and work together with the FOTA members (remember the loonies?), and his relentless efforts to get Jean Todt elected as his successor could very well tip the balance in favor of candidate president Ari Vatanen, who has promised to reform the FIA.

The FIA and the WMSC again lost a lot of their credibility by letting Renault off the hook by handing them a suspended race ban, and ban Flavio Briatore for life, and Pat Symonds for 5 years, while young Nelson Piquet was granted immunity. In fact, the WMSC showed us that the commercial interests of Renault and Formula One were more important to them than the sporting values of that very same Formula One. It is clear that the FIA is heading in the wrong direction, scandals, negative publicity and inconsistent governing of the sport are the order of the day.

Hopefully the FIA members themselves will understand changes are needed to reform the FIA organization. If they fail to acknowledge this and follow the 'guidance and advice' of current president Max Mosley, the FIA will lose even more of its credibility, and we will be stuck with a freshly elected president who's only objective is to continue the policy of the current FIA president. The FIA members will find themselves at an important crossroad on October 23, should they continue in the same direction, or change course for a better future?