Pedro de la Rosa wants to step down as president of the F1 drivers’ association, the GPDA.
Speed Week said the Ferrari reserve driver’s decision became clear last weekend in Australia, with a vote on his successor likely to take place next week ahead of the Malaysian grand prix.
"Wanted: a driver with experience," said correspondent Mathias Brunner.
Alongside 43-year-old Spaniard de la Rosa, the other GPDA directors at present are Jenson Button and reigning world champion Sebastian Vettel.