Mohammed Ben Sulayem Re-elected as FIA President
Mohammed Ben Sulayem has been re-elected unopposed as the president of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the governing body of motor racing. The election was confirmed by the FIA’s General Assembly in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, ahead of the end-of-season prizegiving gala, where new Formula 1 world champion Lando Norris will collect his trophy.
Ben Sulayem’s re-election marks the end of a controversy-ridden process, which saw two prospective opponents, American Tim Meyer and Swiss racing driver Laura Villiers, withdraw their candidacies. Meyer had expressed concerns about the democratic process, stating that “there will be a formal vote, but it will be for only one candidate. This is no longer a democratic process when choice is replaced by control.”
Ben Sulayem’s First Term and Future Plans
Ben Sulayem, who replaced Jean Todt at the end of 2021, will serve a second term for four years. During his first term, he initiated several changes, including pushing for the introduction of an 11th grid slot for 2026, which will be filled by the General Motors-backed Cadillac team. This move is expected to have a significant impact on the sport, and Ben Sulayem’s leadership will be crucial in navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Ben Sulayem’s first term has also been marked by several controversies, including conflicts with Formula 1 itself. The FIA and Formula 1 have been at loggerheads over the officiating of the sport, with drivers pushing for a more streamlined stewarding process. The FIA has been unwilling to commit to a paid group of permanent stewards, instead relying on a rolling panel of volunteers.
Despite these challenges, Ben Sulayem’s re-election has been welcomed by many in the sport. The FIA has reported a significant improvement in its financial situation, with a robust operating result of €4.7m in 2024, the strongest financial result the federation has seen in almost 10 years. This improvement is a testament to Ben Sulayem’s leadership and his ability to navigate the complex and often contentious world of motor racing.
Looking to the Future
As Ben Sulayem begins his second term, he will face numerous challenges, from navigating the complexities of the sport’s governance to ensuring the continued growth and popularity of Formula 1. With his experience and expertise, he is well-placed to address these challenges and lead the FIA into a new era of success. The upcoming season promises to be exciting, with the introduction of new teams and drivers, and Ben Sulayem’s leadership will be crucial in shaping the future of the sport.
For more information on the FIA and Formula 1, please visit the official FIA website or the Formula 1 website. Stay up-to-date with the latest news and developments in the world of motor racing, and get ready for an exciting new season of Formula 1.
