Todt: I will be neutral among all the teams

The candidate for the FIA presidency, Jean Todt, has rejected accusations of impartiality if he takes over as head of the governing body next October. As a reminder, he is the former team principal of Ferrari, and his ability to be completely impartial on Formula 1 matters has been questioned in recent weeks.

In an official statement released by his campaign team, the Frenchman insists that his approach to the role of FIA president is conducted with the same level of professionalism he has demonstrated throughout his career at Ferrari or even Peugeot Sport before that.

« Initially, some people encouraged me to apply, then the media claimed that Ferrari didn’t want me, and the Scuderia responded by saying it was completely neutral on the issue. Of course, I fully agree with them, » said Jean Todt.

« It must be neutral as I will be with all teams if I am elected president. It’s a matter of commitment and professionalism. My past successes in various teams were based on professionalism and total commitment. »

« My approach for the FIA is no different. I would not consider the position of president if I could not be completely professional. Energy and commitment will be my goals to best align with the interests of the FIA. I would act as a guardian of the FIA’s independence, » added the Frenchman.

In the same statement, Todt also provided the reasons for his ambition to become FIA president, stating that he wanted to give something back to the automotive industry. He has been involved in this field for over 30 years.

« Throughout my career, as a director, team principal, and CEO, I have achieved success in a highly competitive environment. I have worked with incredibly talented and dedicated people. Having worked closely with Ferrari, I am eager to bring all the experience I have gained throughout my career and apply it for the benefit of the FIA and its members. »

« I have been very fortunate in my career as I have experienced considerable success in motorsport. Like so many others in our sport, I benefited from the hard work of the FIA’s previous leaders. I believe the time has come for me to give something back to the sport and the different members of the FIA. »

Although Todt stated that he was not yet ready to visit the paddocks of the various circuits with this new status, preferring to focus on policies and setting up his team, he revealed that he had accepted an invitation to meet with members of the Grand Prix Drivers Association (GPDA). The Frenchman added that he intended to work closely with the different organizations in the sport.

« The GPDA had invited me to meet them, and I am very happy to accept this invitation. I look forward to this opportunity to speak with them. Teamwork has been a fundamental characteristic of my achievements in motorsport. This point characterizes my approach in the campaign I am currently leading. »