From correspondents in Tamil Nadu, India, 02:00 PM IST

The Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) has informed the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) that it will formally take over the activities of conducting motor sports in India from July 1, in place of the derecognised Motor Sports Association of India (MAI).

In a letter to FMSCI chairman Vijay Mallya, Pierre de Coninck, Secretary-General, FIA Sport, has stated the MAI, headed by Nazir Hoosein, however, has the right to appeal against the decision.

It may be recalled that Hoosein launched MAI as a rival to the FMSCI in 2000 and secured the sporting power that made it the official National Federation (ASN) in charge of motor sport activities in India.

However, the Indian government continued to accord recognition to the FMSCI as the sole and official governing body for the sport in the country.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)