26/05/2025 10:40
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has reacted to the possibility of facing a rival bid for the position from Carlos Sainz Sr. The Spaniard confirmed earlier this month he was deliberating running for the role in the upcoming December election. Ben Sulayem was widely expected to run for a second term after being voted into the position in December 2021, succeeding Jean Todt. He has now officially confirmed he will stand in the upcoming election as he feels he needs more time to implement his motorport goals. "Do I need more time? Yes. Has it been easy? Never. Has it been enjoyable? Sometimes," the Emirati told Retures. "So, I am going (to stand). I consulted with most of the members. I speak to them." Ben Sulayem added that he wanted to "keep growing motorsport. To make the FIA stronger and stronger. This is my ambition and that's what I will do." No official party has declared their intention to rival Ben Sulayem, with Sainz's interest being the first indication that there could be an opposing party. Sainz Sr has dismissed his run would create a conflict of interest with his son competing in F1 with Williams. Ben Sulayem stated it would be a matter for other parties to consider, as he suggested he has no concern with the two-time WRC champion standing against him. "Let him stand. That is democracy," he said.
