Todt critical of Vatanen's FIA campaign

Jean Todt has criticised FIA presidential rival Ari Vatanen's campaign in a letter sent to the FIA member clubs, claiming that the Finn lacks detailed policies.

With only 10 days remaining until the election on October 23, Todt's letter reiterates his plans for the future of the FIA, as well as questioning Vatanen's policies.

"We have tried to understand our opposition candidates suggestions for the FIA, but couldn't find any detailed policy," said the letter, which was signed by Todt as well as candidates for senate president, deputy president mobility and deputy president sport Nick Craw, Brian Gibbons and Graham Stoker.

"In our campaign, we have emphasised teamwork and the need for the mobility and motor sport pillars to work together.

"In contrast, the negative tone of our opponent's campaign risks undermining the unity of the FIA. Our team recognises that there is far more that unites than divides the clubs of the FIA."

The letter also hit out what it referred to as "personal attacks" in reference to the Vatanen campaign, claiming that the Todt camp had taken a positive approach to the election battle.

"We would appeal to all FIA member clubs to concentrate on the real issues and we hope that the personal attacks and false allegations will stop.

"We will stick to our constructive and positive stance, we place the interest of the FIA at the core of everything we do, and we are grateful for the strong endorsements we have received so far.

"We are confident that a majority of FIA clubs will recognise that our management skills and great professionalism provide the best option to meet the difficult challenges Mobility and Motor Sport face in the future."

Vatanen claims to have built up a strong support among member clubs as a reformer, with Motor Sport South Africa managing director Beaulah Schoeman pledging her support to the former world rally champion.

"I believe that Ari Vatanen is able to lead the FIA into a new era - something which is desperately needed at present," she said.