.:: The FOTA/FIA 2010 War - Todt new FIA President ::.

ECCLESTONE: MOSLEY WILL NOT STAND AGAIN

Bernie Ecclestone believes that FIA president Max Mosley will see through his vow to step down from his role later this year.

Although there has been renewed speculation about Mosley's future plans, on the back of increased tensions between the FIA and the Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA), Ecclestone is sure that his long-time ally will not go back on his intention of moving aside.

"I have no doubt in my mind, as long as I've known Max, he's always done what he said he would do," Ecclestone told The Times.

"He's an honourable person. I've always said Max can have a cheque signed by me, without any name or amount on it, because he's a trustworthy guy. So I have no doubt that he will honour all the things he's ever said he will do."

Ecclestone also revealed that Mosley was hurt by the way that FOTA spoke out following the deal that was reached last month to head off the threat of a breakaway championship.

"He was a bit upset after agreements had been made [with Luca Di Montezemolo, the president of Ferrari] to be quiet and not throw stones at each other, and then remarks were made which upset him," he said.

And Ecclestone is confident that the renewed threat of a breakaway championship will not be realised.

"There are probably a couple of people in all the teams who would like to see it happen," he said. "But, no, I don't think it will happen.

"I think people realise that the Formula 1 World Championship has been going for 60 years, it is well established, we've got the best circuits in the world and I don't think they've even thought through really how there could be a breakaway. And if there is, what would our company do?"

SOURCE: Autosport

"I have no doubt in my mind, as long as I've known Max, he's always done what he said he would do," Ecclestone told The Times.Bernie Ecclestone

The more he says something won't happen, the more likely it is to happen

WHITMARSH: VATANEN COULD BOOST F1

Ari Vatanen, the former world rally champion, has the right credentials to bring reform to the FIA and Formula 1 if he wins the governing body's presidential election, reckons McLaren team principal Martin Whitmarsh.

With Vatanen having announced he will stand in October's election, even though he is not sure whether or not current president Max Mosley will put himself forward again, the Finn has been meeting various F1 figures over the German Grand Prix weekend.

And although the teams have no vote or influence in choosing who becomes president, Whitmarsh believes that Vatanen could help benefit F1 if he triumphs.

"I don't know Ari particularly, but I think he is clearly fresh and new, and I think refreshing the sport would be quite good," said Whitmarsh. "He was a racing driver, very successful, and a world champion, so I think he understands competition. I think that is fresh.

"He has been a successful politician - I don't know if that is a plus or a minus but I think inevitably it is a plus because whether we like it or not, none of us were signed up here to get involved in politics but there is a fair amount of politics involved in F1. So if someone is going to be a reformer he has the credential to do that.

"It will be interesting to see what happens in the coming months, but if Max is not standing again and Ari is a candidate I am sure he will get a lot of support as he seems to be a balanced and sensible individual."

Vatanen told the media at the Nurburgring that if Mosley does not stand again, then he expects former Ferrari team principal Jean Todt to put himself forward.

SOURCE: Autosport

FORMULA ONE ROW NEARING END

Fears about a Formula 1 breakaway championship should be finally laid to rest in the next few days, with teams and the sport's chiefs poised for a series of key meetings to secure grand prix racing's future.

Although there had been fears that a walk out by teams of a FIA Technical Working Group meeting in Germany earlier this week would reignite plans for a rival series, behind the scenes moves mean the ongoing political crisis is now actually heading to a resolution.

The first major step to finding the solution is a meeting scheduled for Wednesday, where F1 teams are planning to sign a legally binding agreement that will control costs over the next few years. Putting that in place is vital for bringing the FIA on board.

Further talks are then scheduled, which will perhaps run on into the week prior to the Hungarian Grand Prix, to get a Concorde Agreement signed between the teams and F1's commercial rights holders CVC.

Once these two agreements are in place, then the documents are set to be presented to the FIA for them to sign. It is understood the governing body will be told to sign the documents or CVC and the teams will begin working together on their own championship.

Ross Brawn said he was optimistic about the situation going forward, feeling that Wednesday's setback in discussions between the FIA and the Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA) was merely a 'blip.'

"It was disappointing," he explained. "Nobody enjoys those things and in the technical area a lot of the teams have had a very good relationship with the FIA over the years and it's very disappointing when those things happen. It was just an untenable situation. If we get all the other matters sorted out then we can get the technical side back on a sensible footing.

"We are seeking a solution with the commercial rights holder and the FIA to get everybody happy and comfortable with going forward. I don't want to say too much. There is a lot of work going on and it is being done in the right spirit. Wednesday last week was very disappointing but I hope it was just a blip in the process rather than a chasm."

When asked if in the wake of the financial document getting signed off on Wednesday he was confident the FIA would join the Concorde Agreement, Brawn said: "I really hope so. We need to sort this out. All the teams are suffering. This is not a helpful environment for sorting out our commercial situation.

"You cannot tell partners or investors what the future holds, and we want to be able to do that. We want to have confidence in explaining what F1 is going to be about in the next five years, so we really do need to get that all sorted. It is a terrible distraction in what's a fantastic season. It's a great shame."

McLaren team principal Martin Whitmarsh said that he hoped the teams could settle all outstanding issues with the FIA and CVC.

"A FOTA series is clearly an option, and we need to know quickly what we are doing," he said. "The later we leave it, the more difficult it is. So, I don't think that will be based upon individuals and egos that are in F1, it will be based upon - do we have an acceptable contract? Do we have an entry at the moment? I am a little bit confused about that I suppose.

"FOTA is not here to campaign against any individual, it is here to try and improve the sport. And we all know that we can improve the sport, and that is not to criticise any one individual or any one organisation.

"We the teams can do a better job, we can work together, and we can work with the governing body, we can work with the commercial rights holder, so we have got to make it better.

"It may be part of the problem in the situation that all of the parties feel that they can go their own way. If you follow that, you don't always get to a consensus quickly enough."

Although there had been initial hopes that the Concorde Agreement would be signed off this week, it is more likely that the matter will stretch on a little bit.

BMW motorsport director Mario Theissen said: "Let us rather say within the next two weeks if everything runs according to plan, then it is certainly possible."

The discussions between the teams and CVC has also prompted fresh question marks about the future role of Bernie Ecclestone.

A report in The Sunday Telegraph suggested that senior figures from CVC met earlier this week to discuss the possibility of moving Ecclestone aside into an honorary role, having already decided to take the initiative in dealing with the teams.

SOURCE: Autosport

N.TECHNOLOGY TAKES FIA TO COURT

The Italian MSC organisation, parent company of the N.Technology team, is taking the FIA to court in Paris over the new Formula 1 team selection process for 2010, AUTOSPORT has learned.

The N.Technology outfit had hoped to make it onto the grid next season but it withdrew its application in June after what it felt were 'irregularities' and uncertainties about the 2010 championship.

Those frustrations have now resulted in MSC applying to the Tribunal de Grande Instance in Paris last week for a legal hearing into the selection process for new teams. The team told AUTOSPORT that the judge accepted it had a valid case for a hearing, and the matter will now be heard on September 15.

MSC board member Angelo Codignoni, who is a former CEO of Eurosport, told AUTOSPORT: "We are doing this in the name of sport. From our point of view, the procedure for dealing with new entrants was not respected and there was not transparency about the process and preparations for the 2010 championship."

The MSC action follows claims that some of the rejected teams were unhappy about being told they needed to run Cosworth engines if their entry was going to be accepted.

AUTOSPORT understands that FOTA has also asked the FIA to clarify the team selection process, although team figures were keen not to get drawn into the controversy over the Nurburgring weekend.

McLaren team principal Martin Whitmarsh said: "FOTA clearly doesn't have a vote on the selection process, so consequently it is not right to have a voice on it.

"We were not involved in the selection process. I think FOTA's position is that we are very happy to see new teams. It is healthy to see new teams in F1, and if FOTA can assist any team to make a successful start in F1 then we should be doing so."

SOURCE: Autosport

FORMULA ONE ROW NEARING END

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ECCLESTONE VOWS TO SORT F1 IN 48 HOURS

Formula 1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone has said that he is going nowhere - as he quashed rumours on Monday that he was getting sidelined and instead vowed to sort out the sport's future in the next 48 hours.

After a weekend of speculation pointed towards Ecclestone being moved aside to make way for a more direct involvement in F1 by its commercial rights holders CVC, the man himself has broken his silence on the matter.

He has instead declared that he will play a central role in helping get a new Concorde Agreement signed off this week which should help finally bring an end to the threat of a breakaway championship.

"Any story suggesting I'm going anywhere is completely untrue. I don't know where they came from," said Ecclestone, regarding a piece that appeared in The Sunday Telegraph.

"I hope to have a Concorde Agreement in place by Wednesday. Max [Mosley] will be happy when we have it sorted. He will have achieved everything he set out to achieve including a new agreement and cost-cutting. He will then be in a position to do what he said he would do and step down. But as for me, I'll be around for the future."

Ecclestone's stance about his future was backed up by Donald Mackenzie, managing partner of CVC Capital Partners.

With CVC having become proactive in dealing with F1 teams directly to frame the Concorde Agreement, there were suggestions that it was trying to operate outside of Ecclestone's involvement.

However, Mackenzie has made it clear that the venture capital company has total faith in Ecclestone to help guide the sport in the future - despite the huge controversy caused by recent remarks about Adolf Hitler.

"Bernie Ecclestone will remain in post," he explained. "There's no question of moving him into an honorary position or upstairs. There has never been any doubt about
that.

"There have been no meetings to discuss it. Bernie knows me well enough to know his position is not under threat. He runs the business and does so very well.

"We did not like what he said about Hitler He knows that and it was dealt with. That's the end of the matter. There never was anything more to it than that."

SOURCE: Autosport

MOSLEY BACKS TODT FOR FIA PRESIDENCY

FIA president Max Mosley has confirmed that he will definitely not stand again in October's election and has endorsed Jean Todt as his preferred candidate.

In a letter sent to all FIA member clubs today, Mosley said that despite pressure from members to restand, he had decided to go through with his decision to step down.

He says that with hard work expecting to result in a new Concorde Agreement being signed to secure F1's future in the next few days, plus other progress in rallying and sportscars, there was little reason for him to go back on his original intention to relinquish the role.

"From a personal point of view, it would be very difficult for me to change my mind and stand again," wrote Mosley in the letter.

"I began some months ago to rearrange my family life with effect from next October. I also informed senior FIA staff that I would not be a candidate. To continue now would greatly complicate my domestic arrangement and be inconsistent with my obligations to my family, particularly after our recent loss. Also, I have felt for some time that I would like to work less. After all, I will be 70 next year.

"Therefore, with these new arrangements in place, extremely grateful though I am for all the letters, emails and messages I have received, I have decided to reconfirm my decision. I will not be a candidate in October."

With former World Rally champion Ari Vatanen having put himself forward for the FIA presidency role, Mosley has ended years of speculation about the man he would like to see replace him and backed former Ferrari team principal Jean Todt for the role.

"I believe the right person to head that team would be Jean Todt," said Mosley about the need for a 'strong, experienced and competent' group of people to lead the FIA in the future.

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

"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."

SOURCE: Autosport

TEAMS MOVE CLOSER TO NEW F1 DEAL

Formula 1 teams moved closer to a deal to secure the future of the sport in a meeting in Geneva on Wednesday, even though a final financial document to tie them together was not signed off.

AUTOSPORT understands that representatives from all 13 teams entered into next year's championship met at FOTA's Geneva headquarters to try and finalise a legally-binding document that would bind them to cost-cutting moves over the next few years.

But although no document was penned after teams failed to agree on every matter in the meeting, which was chaired by Toyota F1 president John Howett, there are now only tiny differences remaining that should be settled in the next few days.

A FOTA source said: "It was a very open dialogue and there are only minor issues to be sorted out now."

Once these small differences are settled, it will clear the way for the FIA to finalise the removal of the budget cap rules from the 2010 regulations and allow all parties to commit to a new Concorde Agreement.

It is hoped that these documents will all be ready to be signed off at the end of next week, with an announcement confirming the matter perhaps coming at the Hungarian Grand Prix.

BMW motorsport director Mario Theissen told AUTOSPORT in Germany, however, that nothing could yet be taken for granted about a resolution to the controversy that has overshadowed the F1 season.

"I am hopeful, but I have seen too many surprise to bet on it," he said.

SOURCE: Autosport

TODT WILL STAND FOR FIA PRESIDENCY

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.

SOURCE: Autosport

TODT AIMS TO IMPROVE FIA EFFECTIVENESS

Jean Todt has says he will move to strengthen the 'independence and effectiveness' of the FIA if he is elected as president in October's elections.

After confirming he was to stand for the position on Thursday, Todt published a letter he had sent to the members of the FIA explaining his reasons for wanting the role.

"I do so conscious that the FIA is a unique organisation that serves both as the governing body of motor sport and the representative of motoring clubs worldwide," he wrote.

"In this letter I would like to explain my commitment to strengthening the independence and effectiveness of the FIA in close co-operation with the entire membership."

Todt paid tributes to the achievements of Mosley during his 16 years as president and said he hoped to offer some continuity for challenges the automotive world faces over the next 40 years.

He also laid out plans to reduce costs in all forms of motorsport and motoring, promote innovation, and ensure the FIA works better together in the future.

Todt added: "I have been very fortunate in my career to have enjoyed considerable success in motor sport and benefit from the hard work of previous leaders of the FIA in creating a global platform on which to compete.

"I feel that for me the time is now right to give something back to the sport and the FIA's club that have given me so much. I would also like to assist my colleagues from the mobility clubs in their important work representing the motoring public.

"For these reasons I am enthusiastic and excited to serve as President of the FIA and very grateful for your consideration of my candidacy."

SOURCE: Autosport

CHANDHOK WON'T RUN FOR FIA PRESIDENCY

Vicky Chandhok, the former president of the Federation of Motor Sports in India (FMSI), has ruled himself out of the battle for the FIA presidency later this year, AUTOSPORT has learned.

Chandhok's close links with Bernie Ecclestone and Max Mosley had prompted speculation that he could launch his own bid to become president in October's elections.

However, despite saying he would relish the opportunity of running motor racing's governing body if the chance came up, Chandhok has made it clear that he does not want to get involved in fighting a hard-fought election.

"Of course I would like the challenge of being FIA president, and if someone asked me to do it I would readily accept it," Chandhok told AUTOSPORT.

"However, I have said several times that I would only do so if I had the full support of Bernie Ecclestone, the F1 teams and the current president, which is Max Mosley.

"I have no interest in getting involved in a big election battle with Ari Vatanen and Jean Todt, so I would like to clarify once and for all that I shall not be throwing my hat into the ring this time."

Chandhok believes the fight between the two confirmed contenders for the presidency, Vatanen and Todt, will be very tight - as both men begin canvassing FIA member clubs for support.

"It is too close to call," explained Chandhok. "We heard what Vatanen had to say recently, and he has come across as a neutral candidate, who would bring change to the FIA.

"But Todt has great experience of motorsport and from within the FIA, having sat on the World Motor Sport Council, and providing he can show that he is untied from the past, then he would be a worthy president too."

SOURCE: Autosport

FIA FOUNDATION REBUKES VATANEN

Ari Vatanen has been criticised by the FIA Foundation for his misleading comments suggesting that Jean Todt's presidential campaign was being funded by the governing body.

Vatanen was widely quoted in the media this week suggesting that the FIA was paying for a private jet for Todt to help him on his campaign to win the presidency role later this year.

Those claims have been strongly rebutted by the FIA Foundation, which has written to Vatanen to express its disappointment about his comments.

In the letter, Carlos Macaya, Chairman, FIA Foundation, said: "These assertions are totally false. For the last two years Jean Todt's partner, the internationally acclaimed actress Michelle Yeoh, has served in a voluntary capacity as the global Ambassador for the Make Roads Safe campaign which is co-ordinated by the FIA Foundation.

"In this role Michelle has travelled all over the world to support the campaign especially in advance of this year's first ever global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety to be held in Moscow on November 19-20.

"A centrepiece of her involvement has been the production of a documentary film, Turning Point, which was broadcast worldwide in May on BBC World TV and also featured at the launch of the Commission for Global Road Safety's new report calling for a UN Decade of Action."

Macaya confirmed that Yeoh had been in Africa recently, and that Todt accompanied her on other business - which included a workshop for national sporting authorities paid for by the Motor Sport Safety Fund.

The letter added: "All these engagements are very helpful to the work of the Foundation and demonstrate the strong commitment of both Michelle and Jean to our work promoting road safety.

"These activities have nothing whatsoever to do with the FIA, or the recently announced election. It is very disappointing that you have chosen to misrepresent the work of a fellow Trustee in this way and belittle the magnificent contribution being made by Michelle Yeoh.

"I am also surprised that you do not seem to be aware of the truth of their involvement as their activities have been extensively reported to you at successive meetings of the Board of Trustees of the FIA Foundation of which you are a member.

"I appreciate that during the forthcoming election for the FIA Presidency there needs to be open and robust debate. However, I would ask that you do not again misrepresent the role of the FIA Foundation in this way."

SOURCE: Autosport

ED: You can read the letter in its entirety here.

TODT HOPES ELECTION MAINTAINS INTEGRITY

Jean Todt has said he hopes that the campaign for the FIA presidency can maintain its democratic integrity, in the wake of controversial comments by Ari Vatanen, currently his only rival in the election.

Vatanen spoke out this week suggesting that the FIA was funding and supporting Todt's campaign by flying him around the world.

Those comments have been strongly criticised by the FIA Foundation, an independent charity, which has written to Vatanen to express its disappointment about his stance and made it clear his claims were wrong.

The Foundation clarified that Todt had travelled recently to Africa accompanying his partner, the actress Michelle Yeoh, who had been speaking at a road safety conference in her role as the global ambassador for the Make Roads Safe campaign. This campaign is coordinated by the FIA Foundation, of which Todt is a trustee.

Although according to his campaign spokesman Todt is reluctant to become involved in the trading of negative soundbites, in the wake of Vatanen's remarks, he has made a short statement on the matter - saying he hopes that the election campaign does not turn personal and can focus on the real issues.

"We are three months away from the election of a new President of the FIA," said Todt on Wednesday. "This period gives the FIA membership an important opportunity before making their choice to reflect on the Federation's achievements, its future goals and challenges.

"I would hope that all candidates will conduct their campaigns with dignity and avoid personalising the issues or engaging in the spreading of disparaging or false allegations.

"I am very proud of the voluntary work Michelle Yeoh has done as the global ambassador for the Make Roads Safe campaign. To gain an accurate insight into Michelle's role I would encourage everyone to watch the film 'Turning Point' and see for themselves her contribution to improving global road safety.

"In future I hope everyone can stick to the issues and respect the integrity of this democratic process."

Yeoh's work on road safety has received widespread international support, and helped result in the documentary 'Turning Point' (which can be seen here http://www.makeroadssafe.org/Pages/home.aspx) that has received widespread coverage around the world.

* Columns which appeared in the features area on autosport.com and in AUTOSPORT magazine last week claimed that a private jet, paid for by the FIA, had taken Jean Todt and Michelle Yeoh to Africa for their recent engagements there.

AUTOSPORT accepts that these claims were untrue and that Jean Todt and his partner Michelle Yeoh travelled to Africa by scheduled airline and not at the FIA's expense. AUTOSPORT would like to apologise for any confusion caused by these reports.

SOURCE: Autosport

FIA: NEW DEAL SHOULD BE READY NEXT WEEK

The new Concorde Agreement which will officially secure Formula 1's future should be ready to be signed by the end of next week, the FIA has said in a statement.

The governing body says that pending the document's approval from its World Motor Sport Council and it receiving confirmation that "satisfactory" cost-reduction measures have been agreed between all 13 teams on the 2010 grid, then the deal will be ready for sign-off next week.

"Following the completion of negotiations with FOA and all 13 Formula One teams by FIA President Max Mosley and FIA Deputy President for Sport Nick Craw, the members of the World Motor Sport Council have been sent a copy of the proposed new Concorde Agreement for their consideration," the FIA statement said.

"Subject to the approval of the WMSC and on receipt of confirmation that a satisfactory cost-reduction agreement is in place, the new Concorde Agreement should be ready for signature at the end of next week."

Although BMW Sauber boss Mario Theissen indicated on Thursday that he expected the new commercial agreement to be secured "within days", it is believed a few sticking points still remain between the teams.

ITV.com/F1 understands that Williams is holding out for changes to the budget control framework and voting procedures, and that these issues have caused a delay in the document being signed off.

But with the sport nevertheless still edging towards a peace deal, the prospect of a breakaway FOTA championship should soon officially disappear.

The new Concorde Agreement - the tripartite document which binds the teams, FIA and commercial rights holder together - will supersede the previous one which lapsed at the end of 2007, with the FOTA squads having insisted on certain changes including governance issues to ensure their commitment to F1 until at least 2012.

The separate cost-reduction agreement will detail how teams plan to reduce budgets to the promised early 1990s levels in the coming years, after the FIA agreed to drop its controversial £40m budget cap rules.

SOURCE: ITV-F1

PROST INTERESTED IN WORKING WITH TODT

Four-time world champion Alain Prost is not ruling out working together with Jean Todt if the former Ferrari boss is chosen as FIA president.

Todt announced he will stand for the presidency of the FIA in October, with former world rally champion Ari Vatanen so far his only confirmed opponent.

Prost believes Todt is the right man for the post, and he admitted he would consider working with him if the opportunity arose.

"Jean Todt would be an excellent president, even though at the moment the F1 teams seem unhappy about his candidature," Prost was quoted as saying by Autosprint magazine.

"If there are the conditions to justify a role in the FIA for me, then it would be with F1 and sport in general. Working next to Todt, why not? This is a possibility we've talked about.

"We'll see in the upcoming months."

SOURCE: Autosport

New Concorde Agreement finally signed

The FIA has announced that a new Concorde Agreement has been signed by president Max Mosley, heralding a final resolution to the political rows that had rocked Formula 1 in the first half of 2009.

A three-way deal between the FIA, the sport's commercial rights holder Bernie Ecclestone and the F1 teams, the Concorde Agreement is the document that sets out how F1 is run and its revenues distributed.

The lack of a new Concorde deal had been a key sticking point during the disagreements between the FIA and the Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA) earlier this season.

"Following approval by the World Motor Sport Council, late last night FIA President Max Mosley signed the 2009 Concorde Agreement, heralding a renewed period of stability for the FIA Formula 1 world championship," said an FIA statement.

"The WMSC has also approved a slightly revised set of stable sporting and technical regulations (to apply from the 2010 championship onwards), which have been agreed by the FIA and the teams and which will be published shortly on the FIA's website.

"The new Concorde Agreement, which runs until 31 December 2012, provides for a continuation of the procedures in the 1998 Concorde Agreement, with decisions taken by working groups and commissions, upon which all teams have voting rights, before going to the WMSC for ratification."

AUTOSPORT understands that the team currently known as BMW Sauber has been given a deadline of next Wednesday (5 August) to sign up to the deal if a rescue package is secured following BMW's decision to quit F1.

The FIA also confirmed that final agreement had been reached on measures for further cost cutting.

"In addition, as agreed in Paris on 24 June 2009, the teams have entered into a resource restriction agreement, which aims to return expenditure to the levels that prevailed in the early 1990s," said the statement.

"With the 2009 Concorde Agreement and the resource restriction agreement in place, the FIA looks forward to a period of stability and prosperity in the FIA Formula 1 world championship."

Source: Autosport.com

Rejected 2010 team files EC complaint against FIA

An unsuccessful team applicant for 2010 has filed a complaint against F1's governing body with the European Commission.

Britain's Daily Telegraph newspaper said the Serbian company AMCO, after trying to obtain one of the three 2010 vacancies for 'Stefan Grand Prix', alleges that the FIA's unofficial requirement that new teams sign engine deals with Cosworth broke anti-competition laws.

"There is an element of plot behind our back which we are not capable of getting rid of without the Directorate General for Competition," the complaint indicates.

The report said an EC investigation is now possible.

Fronted by chief executive Zoran Stefanovic, the AMCO complaint seeks an annulment of the team selection process, which saw the Cosworth-powered Manor, USF1 and Campos outfits granted entries for 2010.

In the days following last June's selection, it was suggested by rejected applicants that the FIA had strongly favoured teams partnering with independent firm Cosworth and not with any of the major manufacturers, which were at war with FIA President Max Mosley at the time.

It was alleged that potential entrants having secured engine deals with manufacteurs were told that a switch to an independent supplier was strongly recommended.

An FIA spokesman had admitted that an independent engine supply was considered a priority within the selection process, to avoid the grid being "at the mercy of the car industry."

A disgruntled unsuccessful 2010 applicant considered the new teams were "hand-picked for political, rather than sport criteria."

Cosworth insisted it "in no way, shape or form requested that the FIA make demands on its behalf of potential entries to the Formula One world championship."

Source: F1-live.com

MELBOURNE WELCOMES F1 DEAL

The Australian Grand Prix Corporation has welcomed the new Concorde Agreement, which it reckons guarantees a successful race at Melbourne next year.

Australian GP bosses have threatened to withdraw its race from the Formula 1 calendar earlier this year after the threat of a breakaway championship was still alive, as it did not want to host a race without the big teams.

But following the announcement by the FIA that a new agreement has been signed, the AGPC has expressed its delight at the conclusion of a deal.

"The Australian Grand Prix Corporation is pleased with the announcement of the finalisation of the new agreement between the FIA, the Formula 1 Commercial Rights Holders and FOTA," said the AGPC in a statement.

"The agreement brings stability to the sport of Formula 1 and ensures the best teams will be participating in the championship for years to come and will all be at Albert Park in March next year."

SOURCE: Autosport

TODT UNVEILS FIA ELECTION MANIFESTO

FIA presidential candidate Jean Todt has released his election manifesto, promising to implement a full review in the way the FIA is managed, and to introduce commissioners to oversee major FIA-coordinated world championships.

The former Ferrari sporting director, who is standing for election against former World Rally champion Ari Vatanen in October, has highlighted affordability and competition, innovation and excellence, and teamwork and co-operation as the major themes of his election campaign.

He added that he is keen to bring transparency to the organising body's governance, and wants to fully review the statutes by which it is currently run.

"Over the next four years, the FIA should seek to build on its strengths, but also be ready to adapt its management and decision-making structures to make them more cost-effective, responsive and transparent," Todt's manifesto reads.

"We propose a thorough review of the FIA statutes to adapt and modernise where necessary the Federation's structure and rules."

Todt proposals to appoint a commissioner to oversee the day-to-day management and governance of each of its world championships would include Formula 1, whose responsibilities would extend to commercial matters.

"The commissioner will represent the FIA in all regulatory and commercial issues relating to the championship, reporting to the World Council and relevant sporting commissions," says the manifesto.

"A system of commissioners will reduce the need for the FIA president, or deputy, to become directly involved in any particular championship and give more time to the leadership to concentrate on the strategic management of the FIA as a whole embracing the twin pillars of both mobility and motor sport."

The Frenchman also proposes that the way stewards operate will be reviewed through the creation of a Stewards Review Group, and that a disciplinary panel will be created to take charge of all investigations and hearings, effectively in place of the World Motor Sport Council.

"[It will] examine improvements to the stewarding system of the FIA's major championships and also explore the development of stewards training courses to encourage their professional development," reads the manifesto.

"Traditionally the World Motor Sport Council has taken a direct role in investigating, and deciding on disciplinary matters referred to it under the International Sporting Code. Such cases can be both very time consuming, and controversial.

"Given that the World Council is the principle executive arm of the FIA's system of governance, we propose that a separate Disciplinary Panel be established which will carry out investigations, hold hearings and recommended possible penalties to the World Council.

"This will ensure that there is a greater separation between the disciplinary process and the World Council while retaining the latter's final authority over any possible sanction."

Todt said that he has been "greatly encouraged" by the support he has received and is confident that his manifesto reflects the desires of the FIA member clubs.

"We have established an important dialogue with the FIA membership and other stakeholders in the motorsport and mobility sectors," he said. "We are convinced that our team and our policies give the FIA the opportunity to refresh its structures, and rededicate itself to serving its members."

Jean Todt and team's full manifesto

SOURCE: Autosport

ED: Not one mention of the word "fan" in there, as a kind gentleman from FOFA pointed out. However, Ari Vatanen sent an E-Mail to FOFA, clearly connecting to the fans.

Difficult choice, if the fans were allowed to vote? We'll have to see what Ari says, but in my opinion, not yet.

BREAKAWAY THREAT BAFFLED ECCLESTONE

Formula 1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone says he is nonplussed by the confrontational stance that was adopted by teams this year as they threatened to set-up a breakaway series.

Although the future of F1 looks more secure on the back of teams signing a new Concorde Agreement with Ecclestone and the FIA, the sport's commercial chief is still baffled about why some outfits and their bosses were so determined to do things their own way.

"I was just telling someone the other day that most of them in Formula 1 are a bit new," Ecclestone said an interview with Singapore's Today newspaper.

"They haven't served an apprenticeship. They just don't know what we had to go through to build things up in the beginning to what they are today. They want to take whatever they can as much as they can and disappear. A couple of them, I think, maybe thought they would like to do something else and be in charge of something.

"They are not even in charge of anything they are now doing anyway, so how they think they could be in charge of something as big as F1, I don't know. Anyway, it is their opinion."

Ecclestone reckoned that teams got carried away with the idea of a breakaway, and thinks that it would ultimately have been very hard to have taken on F1 with a rival series.

"This business is built now and it is easier to do what we are doing rather than start something again," he said. "I wouldn't want to start a series in opposition to Formula 1, for sure.

"There is no real reason for it; there is no logic in it. Just as I said to people, those who wanted to break away must have been carried away. The trouble is they are more the corporate types. This isn't a corporate business, it is an entrepreneur business."

And interestingly, Ecclestone said that should F1 have collapsed amid all the political wrangling that has marred this season, he would have walked away completely rather than try and rebuild it.

"There wouldn't be any point in staying if it collapses, would it?" he said. "I probably think it's not worth the effort rebuilding it. I've got enough energy to do many, many other things and that is what I would be doing."

SOURCE: Autosport

VATANEN ANNOUNCES CABINET MEMBERS

Ari Vatanen has announced the leading cabinet members who will support his bid to become FIA president.

The former world rally champion has revealed that Spaniard Fernando Falco y Fernandez de Cordova will be put forward as his candidate for president of the FIA Senate.

Bernard Tay from Singapore has been nominated as Deputy President for Mobility, while German Hermann Tomczyk has been proposed as deputy president for motorsport.

Speaking about the support from the three candidates, Vatanen said: "These cabinet members all have a long and proven track record in the FIA and in their respective countries.

"Together with them, we can bring about the necessary changes to make the FIA more transparent, more efficient and more effective and to increase the benefit for its members. Now, it is time for change and together we can achieve this."

Falco y Fernandez de Cordova has represented Spain in the FIA and the AIT (International Tourism Alliance), and is a member of the Spanish Higher Council for traffic and road safety (Ministry of the Interior).

Until 2002, he was Vice Chairman of the World Council for Tourism and Motoring of the FIA. In June 1998, he was appointed Chairman of the AIT based in Geneva, a position he held until 2001.

Tay was elected president of FIA Region II, for Asia and the Pacific in April 2009, and has championed road safety programmes through his club's various channels.

Tomczyk, who is a leading figure in Germany's motoring organisations ADAC and the German Motor Sport Federation (DMSB), has been a member of the F1 Commission and the FIA World Motor Sport Council.

Vatanen is currently up against former Ferrari team principal Jean Todt in the FIA presidential election, which is due to take place on October 23.

SOURCE: Autosport

TODT: I WILL BE NEUTRAL TO ALL TEAMS

FIA presidential candidate Jean Todt has dismissed suggestions that his former role as Ferrari team principal would hinder his ability to be impartial when ruling on Formula 1 matters.

In an official Q & A released by his campaign team, the Frenchman insisted that he would approach the role of FIA president with the same level of professionalism that he did during his championship-winning years at Ferrari, and Peugeot Sport before that.

"Initially some people suggested that I would be Ferrari's choice for the presidency, then the media was told that Ferrari didn't want me, and the Scuderia responded by saying that they were in fact neutral," he said. "Of course, I completely agree with them.

"They should be neutral as I will be to all the teams if I am elected president.

"This is a question of commitment and professionalism. The success I have enjoyed, with every team that I have ever worked with, has been founded upon professionalism and a total commitment to that team's goals," he added.

"My approach to the FIA is no different. I would not contemplate running for election as president if I could not focus all my professionalism, energy and commitment upon achieving the goals which are in the best interests of the FIA. Acting as the guardian of the FIA's independence is central to this."

In the document Todt also outlined the reasons behind his ambition to become FIA president, stating that he wanted to give something back to the motor industry he has been a part of for more than 30 years.

"Throughout my career, as a competitor, manager, team principal and chief executive I have enjoyed success in an intensely competitive environment," he said. "I've worked with incredibly talented and dedicated people, teams and organisations with great passion, pride and commitment.

"Now working closely with my candidacy team, I want to bring all the experience I have gained throughout my career and apply it for the benefit of the FIA and its membership.

"I have been very fortunate in my career to have enjoyed considerable success in motorsport. Like so many others in our sport I have benefited from the hard work of previous leaders of the FIA in creating a global platform on which to compete.

"I feel that for me the time is now right to give something back to the sport and the FIA's clubs that have given me so much."

Although Todt said he was not yet ready to begin visiting the pitlanes and paddocks of the various FIA championships - preferring instead to concentrate on policies and putting his team in place - he revealed he would be accepting an invitation to meet with the Grand Prix Drivers' Association.

The Frenchman added that he intended to work closely with the various organisations within the sport - adding that he was committed to leading through teamwork.

"The GPDA have invited me to meet with them and I am very pleased to accept their invitation," he said. "I look forward to the opportunity to talk with them when I visit a forthcoming grand prix.

"Teamwork has been a fundamental characteristic of my achievements in motorsport, it characterises my approach to the current election campaign and, if successful, it will also characterise my presidency of the FIA.

"I'm confident that all drivers, from F1 as well as other motorsport disciplines, will co-operate in this spirit of teamwork and build on the outstanding contributions many of them have already made to the work of the FIA, FIA Institute and FIA Foundation, whether on the track or on the road."

SOURCE: Autosport

ED: :lol:

VATANEN MEETS FOTA IN SPA

FIA presidential candidate Ari Vatanen believes that the Formula 1 Team's Association (FOTA) can make a major contribution to the development of the sport, after meeting with the body at Spa yesterday.

The former World Rally Champion was given the opportunity to address the teams' body on his vision for the way that the sport will be governed in the future and hear what the competitors had to say. Rival candidate Jean Todt will have the same chance at next month's Singapore Grand Prix.

The Finn believes that the body can work with an FIA under his presidency - if he was to win the election on October 23rd - to fulfil the true potential of F1.

"There is so much untapped potential in the sport, but we can realise it if we work together," Vatanen told AUTOSPORT.

"The people in FOTA are the ones that know what the sport and the business is about. The fact is that the sport has not been run as they would like over the years and they have realised that they can work together and with the FIA in the common interest.

"They have lived in fear without knowing what the future holds, and that's no way to run a sport. I can't see why different members of the same family cannot work together without one side or another wanting to dominate the other."

Vatanen emphasised that only through cooperation between the stakeholders in F1 can the sport be guaranteed long-term stability.

The prospects for a FOTA-run breakaway were only ended before the European Grand Prix when the unified Concorde Agreement was signed, and Vatanen sees cooperation between the teams and the FIA as vital for the long-term stability of the sport, even beyond the end of the new Concorde in 2012.

"My message is that it doesn't take away anyone's independence to work together," said Vatanen. "It's in everyone's interest that the competitors prosper and remain in the FIA championship.

"Our role is to give them a platform to perform. It's in the interest of everyone to make sure that this platform is as solid as possible and that there are as many competitors as possible."

SOURCE: Autosport

Williams and Force India rejoin FOTA

Williams and Force India have been re-admitted into the Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA) in a meeting at Monza today.

The two squads had had their membership of the teams' body suspended in May when they broke ranks with the rest of FOTA and entered the 2010 world championship before the FIA's initial deadline. The move came at the height of tensions between the FIA and FOTA over future regulations, and when the prospect of a breakaway series remained very real.

A resolution between the governing body and FOTA was subsequently reached, and today it was announced that Williams and Force India would rejoin the rest of the current field in the teams' group.

FOTA also reiterated that the door was open for 2010 entrants Team US F1, Manor and Campos to join the organisation. US F1 has already applied to become part of FOTA.

"FOTA re-affirmed that all teams competing in Formula One are able to join the association," said a statement. "FOTA therefore welcomes back into full membership both Williams and Force India.

"The Executive Committee also looks forward to welcoming the new entrants to join the association whilst they continue to prepare for next year's championship."

At the meeting FOTA also resolved to begin discussions with Bernie Ecclestone over the future shape of F1 beyond 2012, when the deal agreed to avert a breakaway expires, and to continue its efforts to increase F1's appeal to fans.

"The FOTA Executive Committee looks forward to working with the FIA and Commercial Rights Holder to promote a healthy, dynamic and sustainable sport," said the statement. "To this end, FOTA intends to now enter into open discussion with the Commercial Rights Holder with the wish to confirm arrangements beyond 2012.

"Furthermore, FOTA will now arrange a seminar, open to representatives of the major stakeholders (including Media, Sponsors and Promoters), to discuss how working together we can develop the show creating a more attractive spectacle for the fans."

Source: Autosport.com

STEWART ASKED TO RUN FOR FIA PRESIDENCY

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."

AUTOSPORT

Todt announces cabinet members list

FIA presidential candidate Jean Todt has revealed his full cabinet members list of the key figures who will work for him if he is successful in October's election.

With the official nominations for the election having opened on Friday, Todt is the first man to confirm his senate members, mobility vice presidents and sport vice presidents.

Todt believes the cabinet members (full list below) have exactly the qualities that he thinks the FIA needs to take it into a new era.

"I am delighted to have the support of what I believe is a dynamic leadership team with outstanding experience and knowledge of all the issues central to motoring and motor sport today," said Todt. "It is also a team representative of the entire FIA with members from across Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America, and Latin America.

"I am particularly proud that so many leading members of the FIA family have backed our vision for the future. Both the sporting and mobility sides of the FIA share common values supporting fairness for consumers and competitors, for safety and sustainability on road and track, and the right to enjoy the freedom that the automobile can provide.

"To coincide with the submission of our full candidacy list our team is also publishing our 'Road Map to Renewal' which summarises our key policy proposals for motor sport and mobility. We recognise that the FIA needs to renew itself and through innovation, excellence and teamwork, we can better meet the needs of our membership and meet the challenges of the years ahead."

Todt's full candidacy list is:

President
Jean Todt

Senate President
Nicholas Craw, President, Automobile Competition Committee of the US (USA)

Deputy President Mobility
Brian Gibbons, President, New Zealand Automobile Association (New Zealand)

Deputy President Sport
Graham Stoker, Board Member, Motor Sports Association (UK)

Senate Members
Hernan Gallegos Banderas, President, Automovil Club del Ecuador (Ecuador)
HH Tunku Mudzaffar bin Tunku Mustapha, Chairman, Automobile Association of Malaysia (Malaysia)
S.H. Rudolf Graf von der Schulenburg, President, Automobilclub von Deutschland (Germany)
Carlos Slim Domit, Patron, Asociación Mexicana Automovilistica (Mexico)
Jainchang Yan, Deputy President, Federation of Automobile Sports of China (China)

Mobility Vice Presidents
Carlos Barbosa, President, Automovel Club de Portugal (Portugal)
Victor Dumot, President, Touring and Automobile Club of Paraguay (Paraguay)
Ignacio Gonzalez Fausto, President, Asociación Mexicana Automovilistica (Mexico)
Gus Lagman, President, Automobile Association Philippines (Philippines)
Franco Lucchesi, Delegate to the FIA, Automobile Club d'Italia (Italy)
Jorge Rosales, President, Automobile Club of Argentina (Argentina)
Danijel Starman, President, Avto-moto zveza Slovenije (Slovenia)

Sport Vice Presidents
José Abed, President, Organizacion Mexicana del Deporte Automovilistico Internacional (Mexico)
Michel Boeri, President, Automobile Club de Monaco (Monaco)
Morrie Chandler, Honorary President, MotorSport New Zealand (New Zealand)
Enrico Gelpi, President, Automobile Club d'Italia (Italy)
Carlos Gracia, President, Real Federación Española de Automovilismo (Spain)
Mohamed ben Sulayem, President, Automobile and Touring Club for United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Surinder Thatthi, Secretary General, Kenya Motor Sports Federation (Kenya)

SOURCE: Autosport.com

MOSLEY SAYS RETIREMENT A BIG RELIEF

FIA president Max Mosley says retirement will be a big relief for him later this year, when he is replaced as head of the governing body.

The Briton has been heading the FIA since 1991 but announced earlier this year he will not stand for re-election in October, when he will be replaced by either Ari Vatanen or Jean Todt.

In an interview with the Guardian newspaper, Mosley said he has grown tired of the battles with the teams and manufacturers over the need to reduce costs in Formula 1.

"The gravity has not really registered with the teams," Mosley told the newspaper. "I've pointed out that, if they're allied to a big car manufacturer, they can literally get a fax in the morning with a P45 to follow. But they don't believe it and it's extraordinary how they fought tooth and nail to keep the costs near the current levels.

"It's also surprising the main boards of the manufacturers didn't back what we were doing. They've got factory closures and yet they're still pumping money into Formula 1. In the end it dawned on me that these CEOs are under such pressure that they simply don't have the time to focus on F1."

Mosley, 69, believes he will have been re-elected if had decided to run for president again, but he says he's simply too tired to continue fighting.

"I know the feeling and that's why retirement will be a big relief," he added. "The work is absolutely non-stop and I always feel I haven't really done what I should've done. And I am tired of the battling. It's more or less, in different guises, the same problems with the same people and you're never going to finish.

"At a certain point it's time to stop. I think the FIA members would re-elect me if I stood but I am getting too old. You've only got a limited amount of time left before you drop off - and do you really want to spend it solving other people's problems?"

SOURCE: Autosport

MOSLEY PREDICTS LESS FRICTION IF TODT WINS

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.'"

SOURCE: Autosport

BAHRAIN ANNOUNCES SUPPORT FOR TODT

The Bahrain Motor Federation has announced its support for FIA presidential candidate Jean Todt ahead of next month's election.

BMF president Sheikh Abdulla bin Isa Al Khalifa said his country's motorsport priorities "were significantly aligned" with those of the Frenchman.

The BMF said Al Khalifa had spoken on the phone with Todt's rival Ari Vatanen to inform him of Bahrain's decision.

"Professional motor sport and motoring in general currently faces a number of unique challenges on a global level in terms of adapting to the realities of the current economic climate, increasing environmental challenges, improved safety, competitiveness and the continued good governance and development of an organisation directly representing over 100 million motor enthusiasts worldwide," Al Khalifa said.

"Our priorities in identifying a preferred candidate to support in the FIA's October Presidential elections, were to ensure that candidate had a clear vision for the sustainable development of motor sport, including at grass roots level, a deep understanding of the global public policy agenda for motor users and manufacturers alike, as well as a defined programme for advancing the structures of the FIA and a firm commitment to reflecting the role that individual regions had to play in the FIA's development.

"Jean Todt and his team, we believe, most fully demonstrate these values and vision, as well as a wealth of accompanying experience. I am pleased to announce that, as a result, the Bahrain Motor Federation will be supporting Jean Todt's candidacy."

SOURCE: Autosport

VATANEN ANNOUNCES VICE PRESIDENTS

FIA presidential candidate Ari Vatanen has announced the list of vice-presidents for sport who support him in his candidacy.

The Finn will be backed by HRH Prince Feisal Al Hussein from Jordan, Antonis Michaelides from Cyprus, John Naylor from Ireland, Arie Ruitenbeek from Holland, Kari O. Sohlberg from Finland, Mumtaz Tachincioglu from Turkey and Jack Wavamunno from Uganda.

"Again, I'm delighted with this selection of people who have grouped behind me", said Vatanen.

"Some of them represent countries that are very well-established in international motor sport, but others come from emerging nations. I think it is absolutely essential to have these reformist people, considering it is change we are seeking at the elections.

"If we want to know, for instance, what needs to be done for motor sport in Africa, there can be no better person to ask than Jack Wavamunno.

"On the other hand, it is also important to remember that Hermann Tomczyk, my proposed Deputy President for Sport, represents DMSB, one of the biggest clubs of all."

SOURCE: Autosport

ECCLESTONE BACKS TODT CAMPAIGN

Bernie Ecclestone has given Jean Todt his backing in the contest for the FIA president's position.

The Formula 1 ringmaster said he believes ex-Ferrari team boss Todt is better qualified for the role than his rival, the former World Rally champion Ari Vatanen.

"I have known Jean for many years," Ecclestone said. "He is a most reliable, gifted and trustworthy person. He is determined and dedicated to whatever goals he sets himself and I admire and respect him greatly for everything he has achieved.

"The FIA needs a president that is strong, capable and with experience at the highest levels of motorsport. Jean is by far the most knowledgeable and capable candidate for this vitally important role. I hope everybody will support his candidacy."

Todt is present in Singapore this weekend and met with the Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA) earlier today.

His campaign also received endorsements from the promoters of the World Rally, World Touring Car and FIA GT Championships.

Neil Duncanson from WRC promoter ISC said he had been impressed with Todt's plans for the series.

"I have been very impressed with Jean's manifesto and his whole approach to the task ahead. I especially like the idea of a WRC Commissioner - someone empowered to cut through unnecessary bureaucracy. With the right structure in place, between us we can build WRC into something very special."

SOURCE: Autosport

FIA's Official Election Home Page

SCHUMACHER: TODT WILL CHANGE THE FIA

Michael Schumacher has written an open letter to the FIA member clubs reiterating his support for Jean Todt in the FIA presidential election - and insisting that the former Ferrari team boss will implement major changes.

The seven times world champion said he was keen to tackle perceptions that the FIA under Todt would work in the same vein as under current president Max Mosley, who has endorsed Todt as his favoured successor, and that therefore Todt's rival Ari Vatanen was the candidate for those who sought a fresh era.

Schumacher is adamant that Todt is his own man and will make his own mark on the governing body.

"I know that there are some people who say that Jean's presidency would be a continuation of Max's leadership," he wrote.

"I can only tell these people that they do not know Jean. He has his own expert knowledge, his own agenda and his own leadership style. From my experience he will implement his plans for the FIA in his own way, as a team player."

Schumacher believes that the FIA does need to change under its new leader.

"Since I stopped driving in Formula 1, I have followed the sport very closely and have read a lot of stories which have done our sport much harm," said Schumacher.

"Having worked for the FIA and FIA Foundation on many projects for more than a decade, I may also claim that I am very familiar with the FIA.

"This is why I deeply feel it is time for some changes, but these changes must be managed carefully by someone as skillful as Jean who has formed the right team of people to on the one hand appreciate the great achievements of the FIA and on the other hand really make change happen."

He also feels that Todt will be a conciliatory president and will be willing to delegate power.

"His characteristics such as leadership, loyalty, commitment and knowledge are beyond question, but in my view his outstanding skill is the encouragement of teamwork. In my active racing days I have experienced his willingness to share and delegate to a great and successful extent," Schumacher said.

"In many conversations we have had recently I have understood how detailed and thoughtful Jean's policy programme is. I have also understood that he will bring about the many changes he is preparing for in his very own way: through building consensus with all of the many stakeholders; rather than through confrontation. He will work as part of a team of experts, for the benefit of the world of sport and mobility."

SOURCE: Autosport

FIA/N.TECHNOLOGY VERDICT EXPECTED NEXT MONTH

A verdict in the dispute between the FIA and N.Technology over the 2010 Formula 1 entry process is expected on 10 November.

Italian team N.Technology was one of those that missed out when Campos, Manor and US F1 were awarded the three vacant slots in the 2010 field.

Its parent company MSC began legal action in July after suggesting that there had been irregularities in the process.

"We are doing this in the name of sport," MSC board member Angelo Codignoni told AUTOSPORT at the time. "From our point of view, the procedure for dealing with new entrants was not respected and there was not transparency about the process and preparations for the 2010 championship."

The hearing in the case took place yesterday.

SOURCE: Autosport

LOTUS F1 REVEALS SHOTS OF FIRST CAR

The new Lotus F1 Team has unveiled the first images of what its 2010 car will look like, having completed its first wind tunnel model.

Chief technical officer Mike Gascoyne views the completion of the model as a major achievement, even though he admits there is still plenty of work to do before it makes it onto the grid.

"The start of any windtunnel testing is an important step in the development of a new Formula 1 car, but it is particularly exciting for us as we continue preparations for our first season," he said on Wednesday.

"It has been a very busy time since our entry was confirmed by the FIA. We had been working on the entry for several months so we already had aspects of the team infrastructure in place; the finances, the factory and the top management.

"Once our entry was confirmed in mid-September, we were able to accelerate our recruitment and car development process and this is really where we are at now."

Gascoyne remains confident that Lotus will be ready in time for the start of the 2010 season, which kicks off in Bahrain in the middle of March.

"There is no escaping the challenges that we face simply to get the car ready for the first race of next season, but I am confident that we are up to the task in hand. Our target is to get the car ready for a roll out by the middle of February so that we can carry out preseason testing in preparation for Bahrain in mid-March."

Lotus has yet to confirm any of its drivers for next year, but AUTOSPORT understands that Jarno Trulli is favourite to lead the team in 2010, potentially alongside another experienced driver.

Speaking about his drivers, Gascoyne said: "We have been looking closely at the driver market to determine our best options for next year including Malaysian drivers, but no decisions have been made yet.

"We need versatile drivers. We need reliable and technically-minded drivers who can help us develop the car during the season, but at the same time we need drivers who are hungry for results and who can extract every little bit of performance from the car at all times."

SOURCE: Autosport

MOSLEY VOWS TO STEP BACK AFTER ELECTION

Outgoing FIA president Max Mosley has said he will only get involved in matters involving the governing body in the future if he is specifically asked to do so by member clubs or his successor.

In a letter sent to FIA members on Wednesday, a copy of which has been seen by AUTOSPORT, Mosley said now was the time for him to move away as much as possible from involvement in the organisation - rather than trying to keep a watching brief over what happens.

"I wish my successor and his entire team the very best for the future," he wrote in the letter. "I hope in a modest way through membership of the Senate and the Foundation to continue to stay in touch with the clubs and with the new leadership of the FIA.

"But I will only offer advice if specifically asked to do so. The time has now come for me to step back and enjoy a much quieter life."

Although both FIA presidential candidates Ari Vatanen and Jean Todt have vowed to bring change to the governing body if they are elected, Mosley also made it clear in the letter than he felt his reign had been overwhelmingly successful - especially in dealing with safety and some of F1's recent controversies.

"Early in my Presidency in 1994 we lost Ayrton Senna and Roland Ratzenberger. Their deaths led to a fundamental re-evaluation of safety at all levels of motorsport. We established a research group charged with constant innovation and renewal of safety requirements.

"The result has been improved head and neck protection, the HANS system, better harnesses, crash helmets, wheel tethers, survival cell systems and many other innovations, all of which have contributed to a huge improvement in safety.

"The benefits can be seen every weekend in race meetings and rallies all over the world. Without this progress, the heavy crashes during the recent Formula One event at Suzuka might easily have led to another tragic weekend like Imola in 1994."

Mosley also believed he was right to have acted decisively when it came to sorting out the issues relating to the 2007 spy case and the most recent drama surrounding Renault causing a deliberate crash at the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix.

"In the last year or two, the degree of controversy about the FIA and my role as President reached new heights. In particular, we had to deal with the theft by a top Formula One team of the entire intellectual property of their main rival.

"More recently we had an extraordinary plot to crash a car deliberately during a race. Again, there was controversy but this time the car manufacturer concerned took action and the truth was quickly established. It is always difficult, but these problems have to be tackled decisively if Formula One is to remain credible."

And although Mosley has openly said he wants Todt to win the election, he told the FIA clubs that he was sure they would choose the right candidate in the October 23 vote.

"I am confident that the FIA will recognise how complex and difficult is the task confronting my successor and his team. The election is a transparent and democratic contest and I know you will choose wisely."

SOURCE: Autosport

VATANEN DENIES "DIRTY" CAMPAIGN TALK

FIA presidential candidate Ari Vatanen has rebuffed suggestions that he has employed dirty tricks in his campaign, as he outlined his plans to reform motor racing's governing body if he wins next week's election.

In the wake of rival Jean Todt accusing Vatanen of using 'personal attacks' and 'false allegations', the former world rally champion has hit back with the suggestion that all he has done is outline areas where he thinks change is needed.

"Many people have contacted me and asked what it means when others are accusing my campaign to be dirty?" said Vatanen on Thursday.

"My answer is very simple: if I speak about change, democracy and transparency, it seems to be wrong and it is taken as a personal insult against all the people who have been involved with the FIA before these elections. It can be seen as an old school election tactics, but still amazing."

After Todt also said his rival had lacked detailed policies for reform, Vatanen has outlined his plans for bringing about change within the FIA if he is elected president.

"My first task would be to meet and thank all the people who had made this possible. I would meet the operative management of FIA straight after the meeting to give some guidelines for the coming weeks," he said.

"I would like to show leadership based on common values and build the reputation of the FIA to the level it deserves, defending our way of thinking and life in the mobility and sports world.

"I would invite a few people from an acknowledged international consultant agency to make a report of all the functions of the current FIA and of its structure including finances and administration. Then we would make the necessary decisions in the committee based on those reports and of course in accordance with the views of the committee members.

"We must make sure that the right people are in the right place within the organisation. This all takes a few months. My aim is light central management and administration which is effective but flexible and cost-saving, not one that just creates work for people and tries to centralize everything."

Vatanen has also talked about bringing closer co-operation with other organisations, especially on the sporting side, as well as bringing about a restructuring of the FIA's finances.

He added: "I hope that clubs and people who want to have a change give their votes to me and my team and then we can together start our way towards a new FIA, a federation which belongs to its members and serves them."

SOURCE: Autosport

ED: Ya know, I too am confused as to where Vatanen has used any "dirty" tactics at all :?

TODT CAMP ACCUSED OF BULLY TACTICS

The increasingly bitter battle for the FIA presidency took a fresh twist on Sunday when one of Jean Todt's main supporters was accused of intimidation in a bid to secure votes for the Frenchman.

A report in the Mail on Sunday claimed that Surinder Thatthi, who is on Todt's ticket to become Sport Vice President of the FIA, made veiled threats to Jack Wavumunno, the former president of the Federation of Motor Sport Clubs in Uganda, about his voting plans.

Wavumunno is quoted as saying that Thatthi rang him twice in August - firstly to suggest that supporting Vatanen's campaign would not be in his best interests of himself or his club, and then secondly to claim that supporting Todt could help find the Ugandan club a sponsor to pay its FIA subscription fees.

"Surinder Thatthi said it would not be in the interests of me, or the FMU, if I stood against him for the WMSC and the FMU did not vote for Jean Todt. I felt it was a veiled threat," said Wavumunno.

"In the second call, he said he was aware there was money outstanding from the FMU's subscription to the FIA and he had a sponsor who could pay that, but only on the condition that I withdrew my candidacy and we gave our vote to his candidate, Todt.

"I told him the Federation was making arrangements to pay the money and did not need to sell that vote."

Thatthi has denied the allegations put forward by Wavumunno, and stated that he has not spoken to anyone at the FMU since early August.

However, the Mail on Sunday claims to have seen telephone records that show Thatthi's mobile phone did make calls to Wavumunno on August 29 and September 11. A further call was made to former FMU president David Bitalo on August 29.

The suggestions of intimidation come at the end of a dramatic week in the presidential fight, which has seen the FIA criticise Vatanen's campaign in the wake of the former world rally champion going to the French courts to ensure next Friday's election is fair and democratic.

Vatanen said over the weekend: "The vote has to be seen as fair. The rules of democracy are universal and voting law in France is very strict."

SOURCE: Autosport

Vatanen withdraws court application

FIA presidential candidate Ari Vatanen has withdrawn the court application he had lodged in order to guarantee a fair election.

The Finn had applied to the Tribunal de Grande Instance de Paris to impose measures to ensure that Friday's election was transparent.

However, the FIA said on Tuesday that Vatanen had withdrawn the application after the former world rally champion and rival Jean Todt had a meeting with Max Mosley where both candidates endorsed the fairness of voting procedure, with a series of elements confirmed for the vote:

- The presidential elections will be supervised by a Huissier de Justice throughout the entire procedure.

- There will be a private voting area for marking ballot papers available for those voters who would like to use it.

- Each candidate, along with their speakers in support, will be given an opportunity to present their case to the General Assembly for a maximum of 15 minutes. Mr Todt and his team will take the floor first.

AUTOSPORT understands Vatanen dropped the legal action because all his demands were met.

SOURCE: F1-Live.com

VATANEN VS. TODT

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 styIe 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 styIe 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."

SOURCE: Autosport

TODT WINS ELECTION

Jean Todt is the new FIA president after comfortably winning Friday's election in Paris.

The former Ferrari team principal had been up against former world rally Ari Vatanen for the top job within motor racing's governing body.

Todt got 135 votes compared to Vatanen's 49. There were 12 abstentions or invalid votes.

The entire voting procedure was supervised by an external Huissier de Justice, the French state-appointed public witness.

The victory means he will succeed outgoing president Max Mosley, who made it clear from the outset that he wanted Todt to win the vote.

SOURCE: Autosport

ED: F1 is screwed for another 8-10 years then.

Well, that's a bummer. But at least Todt isn't Mosley.XSamFisherX

That's how I feel. Mad Max is finally gone. Now for Bernie....... :lol:

FOTA HOPES FOR NEW DAWN WITH TODT

The Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA) hopes that FIA president Jean Todt will embrace a new era of co-operation between its organisation and the governing body following the Frenchman's victory in the presidential election.

Although a majority of teams deliberately stayed away from backing either Todt or rival Ari Vatanen in the campaign, FOTA is now hoping that the new FIA president will bring about a push to improve F1 in the future.

FOTA chairman Luca di Montezemolo, who worked with Todt at Ferrari, said: "I would like to send my best wishes to Jean Todt in his new role, as I have always appreciated his ability, dedication and commitment.

"I am sure that, under his guidance, the Federation will be rejuvenated and will restore a climate open to dialogue and constructive collaboration with the teams and FOTA, thus ensuring stability of the regulations and the whole environment.

"Formula 1 is about to embark on a new phase: all the stakeholders must work together with an eye to the future, to increase the credibility and interest generated by this sport, tackling the technical and environmental challenges that await it, while keeping unchanged, those characteristics that have made it one of the most popular disciplines on the world stage."

FOTA vice-chairman John Howett added: "I extend my best wishes to Jean Todt as he takes on this demanding but crucial role. I am convinced that Jean Todt's presidency represents an opportunity for all Formula 1's stakeholders to unite under his leadership and work together to strengthen our sport.

"FOTA is looking forward to supporting him to broaden the appeal of our sport among fans and sponsors while respecting Formula 1's great heritage to which he has contributed enormously."

SOURCE: Autosport