Monaco: FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has officially declared his intention to run for a second four-year term in December, emphasizing his ambition to further strengthen motorsport and the role of Formula One’s governing body. Speaking at the Monaco Grand Prix, the Emirati reiterated his commitment to the FIA’s mission and welcomed any challenger who may decide to contest the election.
“I feel having three years in a complex federation like the FIA is not enough,” said the 63-year-old former rally driver, confirming for the first time that he would seek re-election. He noted that his decision came after extensive consultation with members of the International Automobile Federation.
Reflecting on his first term, Ben Sulayem acknowledged both the challenges and accomplishments of his leadership. “Do I need more time? Yes. Has it been easy? Never. Has it been enjoyable? Sometimes. So, I am going (to stand). I consulted with most of the members. I speak to them,” he explained.
Ben Sulayem stated that his primary objective remains the continued development of motorsport and the enhancement of the FIA’s global standing. “To keep growing motorsport. To make the FIA stronger and stronger. This is my ambition and that’s what I will do,” he said.
He also expressed concern that the FIA had been undervalued in the broader structure of Formula One, pointing to financial disparities between stakeholders. “Raw deals have been given to the FIA. It doesn’t make sense to me that one (Formula One) driver and one team principal make more money than all of the FIA, and the FIA owns the championship. Is that fair?” he questioned.
Ben Sulayem’s presidency, which began in 2021 following the tenure of Jean Todt, has not been without controversy. His administration has navigated high-profile disputes with Liberty Media over commercial issues, faced accusations of sexism, and drawn criticism for fining drivers over foul language.
The FIA has also seen a series of senior resignations, prompting speculation about internal unrest. Additionally, recent statute amendments have triggered concerns among critics who argue they could diminish the authority of the audit and ethics committees.
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Nevertheless, there have been notable successes. The FIA recently announced a €4.7 million ($5.34 million) profit, a significant turnaround from a €24 million loss in 2021. Ongoing negotiations for a new “Concorde Agreement” — the tripartite deal between the FIA, Formula One teams, and Liberty Media — are said to be progressing positively.
Shaila-Ann Rao, the former FIA secretary general for motorsport and one of the most prominent officials to have exited, has returned in an advisory capacity to the president. Meanwhile, American automaker Cadillac is set to join Formula One in 2026 as the sport’s 11th team, following FIA approval despite initial pushback from F1 stakeholders.
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“I cleaned up the FIA house,” Ben Sulayem stated, addressing his critics and internal opposition. “Honest people are there. My back is not anymore with knives in it. All of this negativity; ‘Oh, he’s unpredictable, he’s very controversial’. I am the last one who cares what they (the critics and media) do, what they say. To me it is always about the (FIA) members. But I am more than happy. Maybe I am doing something that irritates them.”
So far, no official rival has declared candidacy, although former world rally champion Carlos Sainz — father of Formula One driver Carlos Sainz Jr. — is reportedly considering entering the race. Ben Sulayem responded positively to the potential challenge, underscoring the FIA’s commitment to open elections.
“Let him stand. That is democracy,” he remarked.
