SRO Motorsports Group was saddened to learn today of the passing of former FIA president Max Mosley.

SRO Motorsports Group was saddened to learn today of the passing of former FIA president Max Mosley.

A qualified barrister and former amateur driver, Mosley rose to become one of the most influential figures in motor racing history. Among his many achievements in the sport, he helped to shape modern GT racing and in doing so played a pivotal role in the evolution of SRO.

After co-founding March Engineering and later joining Bernie Ecclestone's Formula One Constructors' Association (FOCA), Mosley was elected to the FIA presidency in 1993 and held the position until 2009. His three terms in office were characterised by a modernising approach to the sporting side, as well as a significant road safety campaign.  

Mosley also ensured that a Balance of Performance (BOP) system was introduced to the FIA GT Championship. Recognising the importance of multiple manufacturers competing on a level playing field, he worked alongside FIA technical advisor Peter Wright to create a platform that encouraged close competition between a wide variety of cars.   

It proved to be a major success and paved the way for the GT3 category to be introduced by SRO. Mosley was a believer in the new concept and, alongside Stéphane Ratel, presided over its launch in 2005. More than 15 years later this represents the biggest GT formula in the world and continues to rely on the principals of BOP. Indeed, the idea has since been adopted by many other series. 

What’s more, by trusting SRO with the promotion of the FIA Sportscar Championship in 2003, Mosley fostered a rapprochement between the FIA and the ACO. The series was subsequently merged with the ELMS to create the Le Mans Endurance Series in 2005 which, in turn, led to the creation of the FIA World Endurance Championship.

More broadly, Mosley's tenure at the FIA coincided with SRO's growth during the nineties and into the 21st century, during which his support and advice were of great importance.

On behalf of the whole SRO team, Stéphane Ratel sends his sincere condolences to Max’s wife Jean and their family. 

Stéphane Ratel, SRO Motorsports Group founder and CEO: "I was very saddened to learn of Max's passing. He was such a significant figure within international motor racing and did tremendous work to make our sport what it is today, particularly in terms of safety. His intelligence and experience were always greatly appreciated when SRO collaborated with the FIA. His role in the creation of Balance of Performance was especially important and is just one of the many achievements for which he will be remembered."