25/06/2025 16:59
Carlos Sainz Sr has formally decided not to run for the FIA
presidency, clearing the path for Mohammed Ben Sulayem to be
re-elected later this year. Sainz Sr, the father of Williams F1
driver Carlos Sainz Jr, was exploring the possibility of
challenging incumbent Ben Sulayem in December's election following
multiple controversies under his leadership. Many figures in F1
believed that Sainz would have made a strong candidate had he
decided to run, with candidates needing to piece together their
teams, including a deputy president and multiple vice-presidents
well ahead of the election. However, after Ben Sulayem received
the backing of multiple national member associations over the
Spanish GP weekend, Sainz's bid was hanging by a thread, given the
member associations elect the president. Now, the World Rally
Champion has formally decided that he is not going to stand in this
election "as the present circumstances are not ideal to set the
grounds for my candidacy," and also citied his ongoing involvement
in the Dakar Rally. Check out the full statement from Carlos Sainz
Sr below! Carlos Sainz Sr statement in full This message is to
publicly confirm that I have finally decided not to run for the
presidency of the FIA in this year's election. I have worked hard
these past months to understand in depth the situation at the FIA
and the demands and complexities that come with such an important
project. After a thoughtful reflection, I have come to the
conclusion that the present circumstances are not ideal to set the
grounds for my candidacy. Furthermore, I have realised that
properly running for President would notably compromise my
preparation for the Dakar and I do not wish to weaken my commitment
to Ford and my team. These concerns have therefore inclined me to
be realistic and desist from my FIA endeavour for now. Despite
stepping down from this race, my passion for serving and leading
within the Motorsport world hasn't changed, and I still believe the
organisation needs important changes, which I remain genuinely
hopeful that will be tackled in the upcoming years. Both racing
and mobility have been my life, and I will closely follow future
developments with great interest. I will always support my sport
and try to contribute in all meaningful ways to improve mobility
for road users around the world. Finally, I want to sincerely
thank you all for the messages of support, encouragement and advice
I have received during the past weeks. They have reinforced my
confidence to continue striving towards my present and future
goals, and I'm truly grateful. Thank you.
