Tim Mayer Challenges FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem in December Election
Tim Mayer has officially declared his candidacy for the role of FIA president, setting the stage for a competitive election against incumbent Mohammed Ben Sulayem this December. Mayer is the first candidate to announce his run, following speculation that former World Rally champion Carlos Sainz Sr. might enter the fray before ultimately opting out.
Mayer’s decision is not impulsive; sources indicate he has been strategizing his campaign for over six months. "The FIA can and should do better," Mayer stated, addressing his concerns about the current state of the organization. He cited feedback from peers in motorsport and mobility, describing their "desperation" for improvement.
With a career spanning 34 years in the industry, Mayer’s background includes various roles from television producer to senior vice president of racing operations at Champ Car, and he was previously the chief operating officer of IMSA. His involvement in the FIA as a race director and chairman of the Formula 1 stewards since 2016 further solidifies his credentials. Notably, Mayer experienced a controversial dismissal last year via text from Ben Sulayem’s assistant after a review related to the U.S. Grand Prix.
Ben Sulayem, who has announced his intent to seek a second term, has faced scrutiny during his tenure, marked by a series of high-profile departures and accusations of opacity from both Formula 1 drivers and national motorsport organizations. While he has overseen a financial turnaround for the FIA, criticisms have arisen regarding amendments made to FIA statutes.
As the election approaches, the contrasting visions of Mayer and Ben Sulayem present a pivotal moment for the future governance of international motorsports.
