FIA Clubs Could Split After Mosley's Vote Of Confidence

FIA Clubs Could Split After Mosley Vote

PARTING WAYS? In London, Milmo & Tremayne write the decision was met with “regret and incredulity” from six of the leading motoring groups that make up the FIA. American Automobile Association President Robert Darbelnet said that the result is a “‘low point’ in the organisation’s history and threatened to follow the example of Germany’s motor organisation [ADAC], the largest in Europe, by freezing all activities with the FIA.” Darbelnet: “I will give it very serious consideration whether or not to remain effectively engaged in an organisation that condones this type of activity. … One of the potential ramifications is the division or a split away from the organisation that might in fact provide an opportunity for like-minded clubs to find a representative body in a different form” (London INDEPENDENT, 6/4). Britain’s Caravan Club Dir General Trevor Watson said the vote is a "testament to the lack of effective governance within the FIA” (Manchester GUARDIAN, 6/4). British Racing Drivers’ Club President Damon Hill, in a special to the London TELEGRAPH, writes under the header, “Success For Max Mosley -- But A Tragedy For F1.” Hill: “The decision is incredible, although I suppose we shouldn’t be surprised. Max’s audacity has always been absolutely breathtaking.” Hill adds, “I feel that Max is off on his own personal mission and I do not believe that can be good for the sport. I think it’s a tragedy” (London TELEGRAPH, 6/4).

LOOKING AHEAD: In a separate piece, the LONDON TIMES’ Gorman writes the FIA “faces a difficult road ahead, led as it now is by a highly divisive figure. It seems likely that several of the dissenting clubs will follow the lead of the [ADAC], which has announced that it is ‘freezing’ its relations with the FIA ‘so long as Max Mosley holds the top FIA office of president.’ ... The key will be whether Mosley and [F1 Management Chair] Bernie Ecclestone … can patch up the falling-out they appear to have had" over Mosley's sex scandal (LONDON TIMES, 6/4).

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