Zoom Jean-Marie Balestre: 1921 - 2008

Founding member of the FFSA and former FIA President Jean-Marie Balestre has died aged 86.

Balestre, a colourful and sometimes controversial figure in the sport, was elected as the head of the FIA in 1986 and remained in the role until Max Mosley took the position five years later.

"It is with immense sadness that we have learned of the passing of Jean-Marie," TSN report Mosley as saying.

"His contribution to motor sport in France and indeed throughout the world has been unique," Mosley continued. "All those involved in our sport will miss him greatly and will join with me in extending our sincere condolences to his family and friends at this very difficult time. "

Born in 1921, Balestre was the head of FISA, the precursor to what we know as the FIA today and signed the original Concorde Agreement which handed the commercial aspects of the sport to FOCA.

The FFSA confirmed the news this afternoon noting that his death is ‘an immense loss for the sport'.

Earl ALEXANDER
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