Paris  - Max Mosley has hit back at former world rally champion Ari Vatanen Friday over the FIA president's public support for Jean Todt to be his successor as the head of motorsport's ruling body.

Vatanen, who is now a sitting European parliamentarian, is running against former Ferrari team principal Todt in the October 23 election and, in a letter leaked to the press, questioned Mosley's favouring of his rival for the role, adding that he was considering taking legal action.

In a response made public on the FIA website Friday, Mosley stated he was "surprised" that the Finn had criticised him for his support of Todt, claiming that Vatanen "repeatedly" sought the outgoing FIA president's support when the pair met for lunch in July.

"You will recall I told you then that I would support Jean Todt, as I thought him the better candidate," wrote Mosley.

"I know of no provision of French or any other law which prevents an outgoing office holder offering his personal view on who is most qualified to be his successor."

Meanwhile in an official press release, the FIA called on the candidates "to avoid negative campaigning and prejudicial leaks to the media."(dpa)