Paris
Mohammed Ben Sulayem appears set to be re-elected unopposed as president of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the governing body of motor racing, including Formula 1. The indication comes from a list of candidates for other FIA posts showing that potential challengers cannot form the required team to run a campaign.
FIA presidential candidates must submit a team that includes seven vice-presidential candidates from various global regions. The rules require at least one candidate from South America. The only South American eligible is Fabiana Ecclestone of Brazil, who is already listed as part of Ben Sulayem’s team. According to FIA rules, a person cannot be part of multiple teams, effectively leaving Ben Sulayem without opposition.
The entry deadline for candidates is October 24, but the absence of other eligible South American officials means Ben Sulayem is likely to secure another four-year term. The FIA General Assembly will confirm his presidency in December in Uzbekistan.
Ben Sulayem has led the FIA since 2021. His tenure has seen disagreements with some Formula 1 drivers over swearing penalties, which were later eased, and departures of a significant number of staff.
Declared opponents had included American former F1 steward Tim Mayer, who criticized Ben Sulayem for failing to deliver promises and pushing out dissenting staff. Swiss driver Laura Villars and Belgian journalist Virginie Philipott had aimed to become the FIA’s first female president, but both face hurdles in assembling a valid vice-presidential team.
With no viable challengers, Ben Sulayem’s re-election is expected to proceed smoothly, ensuring continuity at the helm of international motor racing.
