Could Carlos Sainz Sr Be Prevented From FIA Presidency Bid?

Could Carlos Sainz Sr could be blocked from standing for the FIA presidential election? This question has arisen after reports surfaced about potential new rules ahead of December’s vote for president of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile.

Current FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem is reportedly encouraging updates to the election process that might make it tougher for new challengers to enter the race. The latest proposals could require candidates to announce their intentions earlier than before.

These changes are expected to be discussed and possibly decided in the FIA General Assembly next month. If passed, the new deadline for presidential hopefuls to declare could leave less time for candidates like Sainz Sr to gather backing from member clubs.

Rumors about Carlos Sainz Sr’s interest emerged after Motorsport.com reported that the Spanish rally star and double Dakar winner was seriously considering launching a campaign. Sainz Sr is well known in racing circles, both as a competitor and as the father of Ferrari F1 driver Carlos Sainz Jr.

If he proceeds with a campaign, the new timeline could pose extra challenges in building support across the FIA’s global network. Another element of the revised rules involves the FIA Code of Ethics, which may require candidates to have no blemishes that question their professional integrity.

The updated code also demands that all parties avoid conflicts of interest and disclose any potential situations that could cause such conflicts. Since Carlos Sainz Sr is related to a current Formula 1 driver, some observers believe concerns about impartiality could arise if he becomes FIA president.

The FIA states these changes aim to align election terms across offices and group races for different positions together. However, the timing of the proposed move has drawn attention, especially with a high-profile candidate like Sainz Sr potentially entering the race.

If adopted, the changes would allow more scrutiny of candidates’ records and backgrounds before the December vote. Meanwhile, Williams team principal James Vowles commented on the possible candidacy, suggesting Sainz Sr would be well suited for the role.

Vowles highlighted Sainz’s deep motorsport experience and the respect he commands among peers. Sainz Sr himself confirmed he is seriously considering the decision, telling reporters that the timing feels right to pursue a new challenge at motorsport’s highest level.

The final decisions on the updated election rules are expected during the FIA assembly next month. With growing interest and possible obstacles, the focus remains on whether Carlos Sainz Sr can clear the hurdles to become an official candidate for one of motorsport’s most influential positions. For comparison, similar nomination processes have been observed in various motorsport elections recently, underscoring the competitive nature of these roles.

Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.