Current FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s bid for a second presidency term appears on track, with several key figures penning their support for the Emirati. As the days count down, only one main challenger has emerged against Ben Sulayem, and that is Carlos Sainz Sr. The Spaniard has voiced his interest in running for the presidency last month but has yet to confirm his candidacy. Despite facing numerous controversies and high-profiled departures during his presidency, the 63 year-old has eyes set on serving a second term.
Support from several key figures in the sport
Earlier today, PlanetF1.com obtained a copy of a letter to Ben Sulayem from several member clubs and key figures in the Americas expressing their support for the 63 year-old. In his pursuit for re-election, Fabiana Ecclestone—FIA vice-president for Sport in South America and wife of Bernie Ecclestone—joined 37 member clubs in signing the letter.
“We are all acutely aware of the catastrophic financial situation you inherited,” the letter stated.
“Without the decisive and bold actions you took from day one, the very future of the FIA would have been at risk.
“The turnaround achieved in less than four years is nothing short of extraordinary, especially when coupled with the implementation of professional management systems that you deployed in parallel.”
Each presidency term runs for four years, before the next election occurs. Since then, the letter has sparked a flow of support letters from the Middle East and African regions backing the Emirati. With the Americas promising to back Ben Sulayem during the re-election, any challenges to the Emirati’s bid to return to the presidency role will be tough.
The letter continued: “We understand that four years is a short time to complete the ambitious reforms you have initiated.
“Therefore, we strongly encourage you to seek re-election at the upcoming AGA, so that you may continue the important work you have started, with our full support.”
However, it remains uncertain who will officially challenge Ben Sulayem to the FIA presidency role.
So what happens next?
After news broke last month, a final decision from Sainz Sr still awaits. The Spaniard appeared eager to pursue the role, noting that the opportunity had come at a perfect time in his life. Additionally, as a two-time World Rally Driver Champion and four-time Dakar Rally winner, Sainz Sr is no stranger to the motorsport world—his son Carlos Sainz Jr, currently racing for Williams Racing in F1 as well. Voicing his support for his dad, Sainz Jr has said he has no doubt in his dad’s ability to do the job well.
Although several figures in the F1 paddock have reportedly encouraged Sainz Sr to run for the role, official confirmation of his candidacy remains unknown—leaving Ben Sulayem in a strong position to secure another term. However, what we do know the next presidential election will take place on the 12th of December during the FIA’s General Assembly in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, later this year.
