Finnish MEP stands for FIA presidency

Publication date: 14 July 2009

Finnish MEP Ari Vatanen is to stand for the presidency of the Federation Internationale de l'Autobobile, F1's governing body.

The former world rally champion says he has put himself forward for the post "for the good of motor sport".

"I think the time has come for a change," said Vatanen.

Current president Max Mosley said last month that he would not seek a fifth four-year term of office in October as part of a deal with F1 teams calling for a reform of the sport's governance.

Speaking from the German grand prix at the weekend, Vatenen said Mosley had done a lot for the sport but that he felt there was a time when every organisation needed change.

"This is not a personal battle between me and someone else," said Vatanen, who was re-elected an MEP in June's European elections.

"I will never throw dirt on Max with whom I have a very good relationship."

Vatanen, who announced his candidacy on Friday, said he hoped to bring unity to a sport currently bedevilled by internal conflict.

The Finn is a four-time Dakar Rally winner and won the world rally championship in 1981. He has been an MEP since 1999.

Other potential candidates for the post include former Ferrari team principal Jean Todt.

Source: The Parliament