Carlos Sainz Sr Prepares to Challenge Ben Sulayem in FIA Presidential Election

According to FIA internal sources, Mohammed Ben Sulayem is preparing for tough competition in the upcoming FIA presidential election in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Carlos Sainz Sr has emerged as a potential challenger for the position.

Ben Sulayem’s leadership since 2021 has been marked by various controversies, from investigations into alleged Formula 1 race interference to senior official resignations.

Key Incidents That Have Shaken the Organization:

• CEO Natalie Robyn’s resignation questioning FIA governance

• F1 race director Niels Wittich’s dismissal without clear explanation

• Controversial driver swearing ban

• Meeting access denial for officials refusing to sign NDAs

• Deputy president Robert Reid’s resignation over governance issues

Robert Reid stated during his resignation last month:

“This is not about personalities; it is about principles. Motorsport deserves leadership that is accountable, transparent, and member-driven.”

The FIA presidential election will be held this December. The voting system requires an absolute majority in the first round or a simple majority in the second round.