Sainz Sr. Mulls Presidential Bid Against Ben Sulayem
Carlos Sainz Sr., the former World Rally Champion and Dakar winner, is weighing a potential candidacy against Mohammed Ben Sulayem for the position of FIA president. Sources indicate that influential figures within the motorsport community have encouraged Sainz to enter the race, citing concerns surrounding the current administration’s governance.
Sainz, a veteran in the motorsports arena and father of Williams F1 driver Carlos Sainz, is considering a platform focused on fostering "a positive and constructive program" for FIA delegates ahead of the general assembly scheduled for December 12 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Ben Sulayem, also 63, has encountered numerous controversies during his presidency, which commenced at the end of 2021 following Jean Todt’s 12-year tenure.
Recent departures from the FIA, including Robert Reid, deputy president for sport, have raised alarms about internal governance. Reid cited "a fundamental breakdown in governance standards" and criticized "critical decisions being made without due process." This sentiment was echoed by David Richards, the UK’s representative, who warned against concentrating power solely in the president’s hands.
Ben Sulayem’s administration has seen backlash not only from FIA members but also from drivers. A ban on swearing provoked protests from rally drivers, while F1 drivers called for a more adult approach to their treatment. Additionally, Ben Sulayem faced scrutiny over comments regarding race outcomes and historical remarks deemed misogynistic.
At the close of 2023, the FIA initiated a compliance investigation into Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, a claim later retracted. As election day approaches, it remains to be seen who else might challenge Ben Sulayem, with Sainz emerging as a prominent potential contender.
