Vatanen receives backing from clubs

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."