Mohammad Bin Sulayem has not denied speculation he is set to become a third candidate for the FIA presidency.<\/p>\n
David Ward has already entered the race to dethrone incumbent Jean Todt in December’s elections, but the latest rumour is that the Briton was only ever a ‘straw man’ precursor for Bin Sulayem’s real bid.<\/p>\n
Bin Sulayem, a former rally driver, is the highest ranking motor racing official in the Middle East, and already an FIA vice-president.<\/p>\n
A spokesman for the 51-year-old said he was aware of the latest speculation.<\/p>\n
“It can be confirmed that he has been contacted in recent weeks by a number of ASC’s (national sporting authorities) from around the world who have expressed a desire for him to run as a candidate,” he told Gulf News.<\/p>\n
“At this stage, he has seen David Ward’s manifesto and has now asked to see Jean Todt’s manifesto as well.<\/p>\n
“Any decision he makes after that will be based on what is best for the FIA going forward,” the spokesman said.<\/p>\n
Bin Sulayem, like the rest of the FIA officialdom, is currently in Dubrovnik, Croatia, for Friday’s World Motor Sport Council meeting.<\/p>\n
Speed Week reports that Pirelli may finally be confirmed as F1’s continuing tyre supplier beyond 2013.\u00a0 A 2014 calendar is also expected to be published.<\/p>\n
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