In a bold declaration of ambition, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the current President of the FIA, has officially announced his candidacy for re-election, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown in the motorsport governing body. Since taking office in December 2021, Ben Sulayem has been a transformative figure, and he is now poised to defend his position during the critical presidential vote scheduled for December 12th in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
With his campaign theme, “A Lot Done. More To Do,” Ben Sulayem is rallying support under the banner of ‘FIA For Members,’ a clear signal that he intends to leverage his accomplishments to secure a second term. His entry into the race comes alongside Tim Mayer, who has also thrown his hat into the ring with a competing platform named ‘FIA Forward,’ first unveiled during the British Grand Prix this past summer. As it stands, Mayer is the only other confirmed candidate, which suggests an electrifying contest ahead.
Ben Sulayem’s strategy appears well-calibrated as he seeks to maintain continuity in leadership. He is reportedly set to retain key figures such as Carmelo Sanz de Barros for the Senate presidency, Tim Shearman as deputy president for automobile mobility and tourism, and Malcolm Wilson as deputy president for sport. This strategic alignment not only strengthens his position but also clarifies his vision for the FIA’s future, ensuring that the essential roles are filled with experienced allies.
However, the road to re-election is not without its challenges. The complete Presidential List, which includes candidates for seven vice-presidential positions across various regions, must be submitted to the FIA Administration by the end of October. While Ben Sulayem’s list is beginning to take shape, Mayer has yet to disclose his full roster, raising the stakes as both candidates prepare to unveil their respective manifestos.
Ben Sulayem’s confidence is buoyed by early signs of support from member clubs in the MENA and Americas regions, suggesting he has built significant momentum that could make it difficult for Mayer to unseat him. In a recent media round-table, Ben Sulayem expressed his unwavering focus on his responsibilities, stating, “For me, it is just achieving what I started to do.” He identified the finalization of the Concorde Agreement as his primary challenge, underscoring his commitment to steering the FIA through critical negotiations.
Despite the fierce competition, Ben Sulayem remains undeterred by Mayer’s single-minded approach. He metaphorically likened the election process to a race, affirming, “I know that whatever I’ve been doing is good for the members.” His confidence is palpable, as he emphasizes the importance of trust between leadership and the member clubs, stating, “It’s not about sending an email. It’s feeling them. It’s talking to them.”
The incumbent president acknowledges the challenges of campaigning, reflecting on his own past struggles and urging that the members’ decisions are paramount. “At the end of the day, one thing is very clear. It is the members who vote,” he declared, asserting that the ultimate choice lies in the hands of the FIA’s constituents. His optimistic demeanor shines through as he adds, “I wish him all the best… Let’s wait for the General Assembly, and let’s see, they will get me out, then.”
As the December election looms, the anticipation builds. Will Mohammed Ben Sulayem secure his legacy and continue to drive the FIA forward, or will Tim Mayer’s fresh perspective resonate more with the membership? The outcome will not only determine the future leadership of the FIA but will also shape the direction of motorsport governance for years to come. The motorsport community is gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling electoral showdown.
