Mosley sues over Nazi orgy claim

Mosley will face a vote of confidence on 3 June

Motorsport boss Max Mosley has launched a libel claim against a UK newspaper in France over claims he took part in a Nazi-themed orgy with prostitutes.

The News of the World, which published a video of the alleged encounter, has declined to comment on the lawsuit.

Mr Mosley, son of fascist leader Sir Oswald Mosley, alleges defamation and invasion of privacy against the paper, its editor-in-chief and other staff.

He accepts he visited the prostitutes but denies there were Nazi overtones.

The FIA president, 67, is also suing News Group Newspapers, which owns the paper, in the UK for breach of privacy.

The News of the World has said it will vigorously defend the claims against it in the British courts. A five-day trial is expected to take place in July.

The newspaper successfully blocked a High Court bid by Mr Mosley to prevent publication of the video last month.

Mr Mosley has apologised to the FIA - the governing body for Formula 1 racing - for any embarrassment caused by his actions and has faced repeated calls for his resignation.

He faces a confidence vote in Paris next week and has indicated he will not seek another term as FIA chief even if he wins the vote.