FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem Confirms Plans for Second Term in December Election

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the current president of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), has confirmed he will seek a second four-year term in the December elections, a decision he made after consulting with FIA members. Despite controversies during his first term—including conflicts with Formula 1 drivers and teams, accusations of sexism, heavy fines on driver swearing, and an exodus of senior FIA staff—Ben Sulayem remains committed to growing motorsport and strengthening the FIA. He criticized the commercial rights deal with Liberty Media, arguing it unfairly benefits individual F1 drivers and team principals more than the FIA itself, which owns the championship. Ben Sulayem welcomed the potential candidacy of rally driver Carlos Sainz Sr., saying a rival should be allowed to stand as part of a democratic process. He highlighted financial improvements under his leadership, turning a significant deficit into a profit, and asserted that he has 'cleaned up the FIA house' despite ongoing negative perceptions. The FIA president aims to continue his work making the federation stronger and addressing internal challenges as he seeks re-election.