MONTREAL (Reuters) - Toyota said on Thursday it was time for Formula One to move on from the Max Mosley sex scandal after accepting that the Briton had won his battle to stay in charge of motor racing's world governing body.

The International Automobile Federation (FIA) president won a confidence vote in Paris on Tuesday by 103 to 55 and despite strong opposition from car clubs representing tens of millions of ordinary motorists.

The 68-year-old had ignored calls to quit since March when the News of the World newspaper published details and photographs of his involvement in what was described as a Nazi-style sado-masochistic orgy with prostitutes.

"Toyota Motorsport acknowledges the result of the Extraordinary General Assembly and accepts the decision taken," the Japanese manufacturer said in a statement at the Canadian Grand Prix.

"Now that the FIA (International Automobile Federation) membership has expressed its view we hope that motorsport is able to conduct its activities unhindered by scandal, controversy and negative publicity.

"We also acknowledge and understand the position of the major touring clubs, of which many of our customers are members," added the Germany-based team.

Mosley, whose father Oswald was the founder of the pre-World War Two British Union of Fascists, has denied any Nazi connotations to the scandal and is taking legal action against the paper for invasion of privacy.

Toyota had issued a strong statement at the Bahrain Grand Prix in April, condemning "any behaviour which could be seen to damage Formula One's image, in particular any behaviour which could be understood to be racist or anti-semitic".

In that statement, the Japanese manufacturer also referred to the "moral obligations which come with the position of FIA President" and said senior figures in sport and business must adhere to high standards of behaviour.

German carmaker BMW, who had also called into question Mosley's future at that time, said after the vote that they accepted the outcome.

"We respect this decision, which was made by the delegates in full knowledge of the facts," said BMW Sauber team boss Mario Theissen.

"It is important now for everyone concerned to turn their undivided attention back to the sport."

Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo said in a statement that he was pleased Mosley, whose term in office expires in October 2009, was staying.

"I am happy Max Mosley has been confirmed as president of the FIA, through the years he has done an excellent job for Formula One," said the Italian, clarifying earlier comments suggesting Mosley should think about quitting "for reasons of credibility".

"With regards his future, it will only be up to him to decide if and when to take a step back."

(Writing by Alan Baldwin in London, editing by Miles Evans)