FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem moves to abolish term limits across the federation, with a vote due next month, a shift that could extend his presidency beyond today’s 12‑year ceiling.

The 64‑year‑old has served since December 2021 and secured unopposed re‑election last year, positioning him to benefit most immediately if restrictions disappear.

The plan goes to the FIA General Assembly, where approval is widely expected. Current rules cap the presidency at three four‑year terms.

Sulayem’s uncontested re‑election last year followed an unusual process. Rival candidates were squeezed out by nomination rules rather than beaten on votes.

Presidential hopefuls must present complete vice‑presidential slates from each FIA region. In the last contest, one regional position had no alternative, effectively blocking any challenger from forming a full ticket.

An FIA spokesperson says the proposal aims to harmonise tenure rules across commissions, councils, and the senate, creating consistency with how the world councils already operate.

Asked why limits would be scrapped rather than extended to posts without caps, the FIA offered no direct rationale. It instead cited NFL commissioner Roger Goodell’s long tenure since 2006.

Context matters. Jean Todt introduced the three‑term limit after succeeding Max Mosley, who led from 1993 to 2009 before stepping down amid confrontations with Formula 1 teams.

Two additional changes accompany the proposal. Presidential candidates would need demonstrable experience within an FIA member organisation or body, tightening eligibility.

The deadline to lodge full vice‑presidential teams would move from 49 to 100 days before voting, a shift likely to entrench incumbents by raising the organisational barrier to entry.

Beyond the presidency, the plan removes limits for key committees, including anti‑doping and Formula 1 cost‑cap oversight. Attention to FIA roles bound by term limits underscores the change’s scope.

The proposals land amid heightened governance scrutiny, including the FIA’s recent F1 ownership probe. Legal action by potential challenger Laura Villars further stresses the stakes.

If approved, the reforms would stabilise leadership but reduce turnover, shifting power toward established networks. Competitive consequences depend on whether independence and oversight remain robust in practice.

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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.