Tim Mayer Challenges Ben Sulayem for FIA Presidency

Tim Mayer, an American motorsport official and former Formula 1 steward, has launched his campaign to challenge incumbent FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem in the December 2025 election, criticizing Ben Sulayem's leadership as a 'reign of terror' marked by centralization of power, lack of transparency, and governance failures. Mayer, who was dismissed from his steward role last November under contentious circumstances, emphasizes his campaign is focused on restoring democracy, transparency, and improved management within the FIA, as well as advancing sustainability, safety, and accessibility in motorsport and mobility. He highlights the numerous resignations and departures from the FIA under Ben Sulayem's tenure, including the deputy president for sport, Robert Reid, who cited governance breakdowns. Despite personal setbacks, Mayer insists his candidacy is not motivated by revenge but by a commitment to service and leadership reform. Mayer is supported by Motorsport UK and has been in communication with Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, aiming to engage smaller member clubs worldwide to build a broad coalition for change. Ben Sulayem, who has faced public criticism and challenges, is seeking a second term and remains the front-runner in an election that Mayer describes as a difficult campaign due to recent statute changes favoring the incumbent.