New FIA president visits Singapore to check progress

Jean Todt was elected president of the FIA – the world governing body for motor sports – in October 2009. He is now making his rounds visiting various affiliate clubs, and was in Singapore to meet officials from the Singapore Motor Sports Association.

The 63-year-old Frenchman started his South East Asia tour with a one-day stop-over in Singapore to discuss the progress of the sport here.

Singapore has made huge strides in motor sports, including staging the F1. And Mr. Todt said that the return of Michael Schumacher will have a big impact.

The Australian GP has already seen a 25 per cent increase in ticket sales.

But the former Ferrari Team Principal is less optimistic about the German's title chances this season.

Mr. Todt said: "…If Michael is able to have a strong car, he will be a strong driver. If he (does not have a) strong car…even if he is a strong driver, he will not win races…that is the essence of racing."