Fyzool Madan, president of the T&T Automobile Sports Association was re-elected unopposed for a third consecutive term to lead the organisation, thereby officially allowing him the maximum among of terms that can be held by a president.
At an Annual General Meeting (AGM) which included the elections which took place two weeks ago, Madan's entire executive merely had to go through the formality of the reading of their financial report and other business, before they were returned as officers of the sport.
The local automobile boss said the membership has spoken, saying they have stood up for what they want, which is performance and to take motor racing forward.
Madan told Guardian Media Sports on Sunday that, under the constitution of the TTASA, a president can serve for two terms, but it is the membership that will have to decide on whether the president will get a third term, based on the achievement or the success he/she has had during their two-year term in office.
Madan dismissed claims he and his administration attempted to steal the election by amending the constitution, saying that was far from the truth. He made it clear his organisation is governed by a constitution. Despite being able to secure a home for the sport at Wallerfield, the motorsports boss said the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic prevented them from achieving their plans this year. "We had plans at Wallerfield for more bleachers, more covered bleachers, washrooms and toilets both for drag racing and circuit facilities as well, also we are assisting the karting club where they share part of the track with us as well. We had our money, we had our plans and everything but COVID-19 gave us a little setback, but now as the restrictions have eased, we are starting to do upgrades on the tracks as we promised the members."
He said he wants to engage in succession-planning whereby he can leave the sport in a good place, and in the arms of a good vice president. "So following in my footsteps and with my guidance, I am training the guys behind me to follow my way in doing things and be transparent and very honest to the members."
Madan also sought to clear the air on why his organisation was downgraded in the recent past by the sport's world governing body- the Federation of International Automobile Sports Association (FIA). In December 2019, the FIA demoted TTASA to an associate member. Madan said it was because they could not get the foreign exchange, coupled with the fact that there are people doing everything in their power to ensure his organisation does not get the foreign exchange that is required to pay the FIA.
He said at the top of his agenda over the next year will be having T&T upgraded once more to full FIA status.
Madan released a letter from the FIA which congratulated him on his re-election and he told Guardian Media Sports that he posted the letter for everyone to see the relationship they shared with the international body.
He assures all their fees have been paid and up to date, except for a small loan that was taken by an ex-president that they are paying off now, noting that by next year their FIA status will be back on track.