Tim Mayer Launches FIA Presidential Campaign
Whittlebury Hall, UK – Tim Mayer formally announced his candidacy for the presidency of the FIA in a press event held in the Hockenheim Room, strategically timed to precede the July meeting of the World Motorsport Council in Macau, where electoral campaign guidelines were established. Mayer’s campaign theme, "FIA Forward," outlines a vision for reform within the organization, emphasizing the need for significant change.
Mayer, dressed sharply and addressing a room filled with motorsports journalists, revealed that his campaign would require an estimated budget of $4 to $6 million, supported by backers seeking transformative leadership. "I’ll need to get out there, shaking hands and kissing babies," he remarked, underlining the grassroots approach he plans to take.
Acknowledging the incumbent, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, Mayer credited some achievements during Ben Sulayem’s three-and-a-half-year term, despite it being fraught with controversies—from driver conduct rules to significant staff turnover. Mayer pointedly argued against an “illusion of inclusion” within the FIA, highlighting the detrimental workplace environment he believes current staff face.
Responding to a letter of support for Ben Sulayem from 36 automobile associations, Mayer likened it to a platitude from his children, given only after he curtailed their allowances. He underscored his intention for a respectful campaign, asserting he won’t engage in negative tactics despite his past firings from the FIA, which he testified occurred via text message.
With the FIA presidential election scheduled for December, Mayer’s strategic timing and clear articulations of his objectives suggest a determined bid for leadership in an organization facing critical introspection. As he continues his campaign, supporters and critics alike will watch closely—Mayer’s performance at the podium indicates he is poised to be a formidable contender.
