Formula One news

FIA demands: Honest and open elections

Formula One governing body the FIA has demanded that its elections are run in an 'honest and open' manner next week. The federation revealed a letter on Friday in which presidential candidate Ari Vatanen describes current President Max Mosley as having violated 'the principle of neutrality '.

Vatanen believes that Mosley is influencing the decisions of FIA member groups

With Mosley an open supporter of Jean Todt, Vatanen's sole rival ahead of next Friday's elections, the Finn explained in a letter dated Wednesday 14 October that neutrality must find a place at all times 'which all persons must adopt who due to their position have a particular influence on voters'.

Vatanen, World Rally Champion of 1981, stresses that such actions opinion-swaying actions from the current President could indeed be punishable in 'all of the French courts'.

Mosley, in a letter also published on the FIA website, responded to Vatanen's claims on Thursday, beginning with the following: 'I am surprised you seek to criticise me for supporting the other candidate. 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 he was a better candidate.'


With the FIA having published both letters online 'in the interest of transparency', it released a brief statement:

'The FIA will be calling on all candidates to avoid negative campaigning and prejudicial leaks to the media. Candidates should focus on the positive aspects and opportunities of the upcoming election and its effect on motoring and motor sport.'


Letters in full:

- Vatanen to Mosley (Wednesday)
- Mosley's response to Vatanan (Thursday)

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