MUMBAI: The World Motor Sports Council of the FIA which met in Paris on 5 July 2006, to adjudicate on the conflict between the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) and the Motor Sports Association of India (MAI), directed representatives of both organisations to merge under the chairmanship of Dr. Vijay Mallya by 1 September 2006.
Failing this the FIA might be constrained to de-recognise both organisations and seek a third alternative.
Nazir Hussain and Counsel C.D.Mehta, represented MAI whilst Rajat Mazumdar and Counsel Y. Bharadwaj represented FMSCI. Dr. Vijay Mallya, who is the chairman of both organisations was also present.
Following the meeting of the World Motor Sports Council Dr. Mallya and Hussain met and agreed to find a satisfactory solution for a merger, keeping in mind the interests of all parties. FMSCI president Rajat Mazumdar stated before the World Motor Sports Council that the FMSCI would comply with the directions of Dr. Mallya, its chairman. Recently, the Government of India, Ministry of Sports confirmed their recognition of the FMSCI as the National Sports Federation. Earlier, the FIA had given it’s recognition to the MAI as its ASN for India.
Dr. Vijay Mallya stated, “The unfortunate disagreements between the FMSCI and the MAI have affected the standing and reputation of our country in the eyes of the international motor sport fraternity. As desired by the World Motor Sports Council of the FIA I am committed to finding an acceptable and permanent solution and I hope that all previously conflicting parties cooperate in the interest of Indian motor sport. It is my dream to bring Formula 1 to India and this will not be possible if conflicts continue.”
Merger talks between the FMSCI and MAI are expected to commence within the next two weeks.
