JOIN USAfter a second extended term as president of the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI), Vicky Chandhok on Monday opted to step down and not to seek re-election.
After an earlier stint of three years at the helm of the FMSCI 2005 to 2007, Chandhok was elected to the presidency again in 2010.
In a statement, Chandhok said it was a hard and emotional decision not to stand for re-election, and that it was time for him to move on.
“This is a difficult decision for me but after being president for seven out of the last nine years, and living and breathing Indian motorsport on a daily basis, it is time to pass on the baton.
“The federation has seen many wins over the past few years, including, most notably, Formula 1 coming to India as well as the Asian Road Racing Championship for Bikes.
“The first ever FMSCI Automobile Conclave has helped us in bringing more manufacturers into our various domestic championships,” said Chandhok. “From an international perspective, India has a much larger presence in world motorsport with 14 people joining international commissions and I’m glad that I have played a part in building these international relations with the FIA, FIM and CIK.”
He admitted, “there is a plenty of work to be done in supporting the Jaypee Group and Formula One management, as well as the vehicle manufacturers to improve the sport in India.”
Election results withheld
Meanwhile, following a Madras High Court order, the results of the FMSCI elections were kept in abeyance. Srikanth Karani of Sportscraft had sought an injunction against the elections, questioning a 2011 decision of the FMSCI that denied him the right to vote.