FIA respond to surprise Mohammed Ben Sulayem challenge

The FIA has released a statement following the unexpected candidacy of Tim Mayer, who is running to unseat incumbent Mohammed Ben Sulayem as president of the motorsport governing body. In doing so, it reinforced its "commitment to impartiality and to preserve equal treatment of candidates" during the campaign. It has also reiterated that all FIA staff members must "maintain strict neutrality throughout the process", which will conclude with the election at the general assemblies on 12 December. Mayer launched his campaign on Friday , 4 July, at a press conference near Silverstone, where the British Grand Prix is being held this weekend. The American promised to end the "reign of terror" seen since Ben Sulayem stepped into office at the end of 2021, when he succeeded former Ferrari team principal Jean Todt. The 59-year-old challenger, who was dismissed as an F1 steward in November, has himself insisted his candidacy has not been declared to seek "revenge" but does feel it will take a "Herculean" effort to beat Ben Sulayem in December. His campaign is built on the belief he will not have to "break the thing" to bring by meaningful change. "I am not a revolutionary," he explained. "I am somebody who will evolve this forward." Check out the full statement from the FIA on the presidential election below. FIA statement on the presidential election in full "The FIA Presidential election is a structured and democratic process, to ensure fairness, transparency, and integrity at every stage. It is conducted in accordance with the FIA Statutes. "The Presidential List, which includes the President of the FIA, is elected by FIA Member Clubs with full voting rights, representing both the Sport and Mobility pillars of the organisation. "In line with the FIA's commitment to impartiality and to preserve equal treatment of candidates, FIA staff members are required to maintain strict neutrality throughout the process. The Federation will continue to operate as normal, delivering on its responsibilities to its members and across all areas of motor sport and mobility. "This year's election will take place during the FIA General Assemblies on 12 December."