Max Mosley has confirmed that he will not stand for re-election as FIA president in October.
In a letter to FIA members, Mosley said he definitely would not be standing, despite receiving the support of more then 100 members. Instead, he has chosen to back ex-Ferrari F1 boss Jean Todt's bid for the presidency.
Alan Henry blog: Mosley stands down, Todt stands up
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“From a personal point of view, it would be very difficult for me to change my mind and stand again,” said Mosley.
“I began some months ago to rearrange my family life with effect from next October. I also informed senior FIA staff that I would not be a candidate. To continue now would greatly complicate my domestic arrangement and be inconsistent with my obligations to my family, particularly after our recent loss [of Mosley's son Alexander, who died in May of a suspected drug overdose].
“Also, I have felt for some time that I would like to work less. After all, I will be 70 next year.
"Therefore, with these new arrangements in place, extremely grateful though I am for all the letters, emails and messages I have received, I have decided to reconfirm my decision. I will not be a candidate in October."
Former world rally champion Ari Vatanen has put himself forward for the presidency, but Mosley is choosing to back Todt, even though the Frenchman has not officially thrown his name into the ring yet.
"Jean is unquestionably the outstanding motorsport manager of his generation and arguably of any generation,” said Mosley.
"If he agrees to stand, I think he would be the ideal person to continue but also to extend the work of the past 16 years. He can be relied on in all areas where the FIA is active. I very much hope you will give him your support."
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