Saturday, 24 October 2009 17:14
Ari Vatanen has expressed his disappointment and surprise after Jean Todt's commanding victory in their race for the FIA president's role.
The former rally star had been thought to be gaining ground on the ex-Ferrari boss as the controversial campaign drew to a close, but Todt's winning margin was ultimately 135 votes to just 49 for Vatanen.
He had been strongly critical of Todt's campaign - and particularly the support he received from the previous FIA establishment, and reckoned that had proved crucial.
"I did not expect that such a vast majority would vote for Jean Todt," Vatanen was quoted as saying by Reuters.
"I thought that more people would vote for me but apparently the delegates felt the pressure."
Vatanen said he was frustrated because he did not think Todt would make the changes he believes the governing body desperately requires.
"It's very hard to renew this regime," he said.
"I hope that the FIA will become more democratic but so far it is just wishful thinking."
But at a press conference to celebrate his victory, Todt insisted his pledges of a more conciliatory future were not just election rhetoric - and called on both sides in the election battle to unite for the good of the FIA.
"The day the election is over everybody must share the same goals, including those who did not support me," Todt said.
"I am not closing the door to anybody."
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