FIA President Ben Sulayem Responds to Sainz Sr Rival Bid

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has spoken out amid growing speculation about a possible challenge from Carlos Sainz Sr in the upcoming FIA presidential election. The election is scheduled for December, and Sainz Sr, a two-time World Rally Champion from Spain, has indicated he is considering entering the race.

Ben Sulayem, who took the role in December 2021 succeeding Jean Todt, made clear he intends to run for a second term. He pointed to the need for more time to build on his ambition to strengthen the FIA and grow global motorsport.

The president shared that serving in the role has been demanding and requires substantial commitment, but he remains focused on his goals. He described the job as tough but sometimes enjoyable, emphasizing his desire to continue the work he started.

While no rival candidates have officially declared their intention to run yet, Sainz Sr’s interest represents the first real sign that Ben Sulayem could face competition.

The possibility of a challenge has drawn attention from the paddock and motorsport fans, particularly with the Sainz family’s close link to Formula 1 through Sainz Jr’s racing seat at Williams.

There has been some debate over whether Sainz Sr’s candidacy could present a conflict of interest. His son, Carlos Sainz Jr, races for Williams in F1, raising questions about impartiality.

Sainz Sr has addressed these concerns directly, insisting a clear separation would be maintained between his potential role as FIA president and his son’s career. He emphasized that his experience in rallying, karting, and single-seaters positions him well for the presidency but stressed that his decision remains a possibility and is not finalized.

When asked about the prospect of a contest, Ben Sulayem said rival candidates are part of democracy and that he has no issue with Sainz Sr standing. He explained that he has consulted with members of the federation and believes the election process should be open and democratic.

So far, there is no official opposing candidate, but the upcoming months could bring further declarations as the December election approaches.

Recent news and reactions across Formula 1 have kept the spotlight on the FIA, with topics like Max Verstappen’s bold comments after Monaco, George Russell’s praised driving, and the ongoing calendar for the 2025 F1 season.

The drivers’ and teams’ standings are led by Oscar Piastri and McLaren, with McLaren holding 319 points in the teams’ table. Ferrari and Red Bull are close behind as the series heads into a busy European leg, with the Spanish Grand Prix scheduled for June 1 at Circuit de Catalunya.

This year’s FIA presidential election promises to be more competitive than in recent memory. Experienced figures are considering candidacy while new ethical standards and election procedures are being discussed. The FIA has also issued an urgent statement recently, highlighting its focus on transparency and fairness.

As the field clarifies in the coming weeks, all eyes in the motorsport community will be on who ultimately steps forward to lead the FIA into the next chapter. The enthusiasm around the election parallels the excitement surrounding Sainz Jr’s performances, such as his strategic two-pitstop approach in Monaco, keeping fans engaged on multiple fronts.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.