FIA Proposes Changes to Governance Rules

The FIA is proposing significant changes to its governance structure in response to ongoing controversies surrounding President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The proposed reforms, which will be voted on by the FIA general assembly on December 13, aim to shift oversight of ethics complaints from the senate to Ben Sulayem and the senate president, effectively reducing the independence of auditing and ethics committees. This move follows allegations against Ben Sulayem, including accusations of financial misconduct and interference in grand prix operations, which have all been dismissed. The changes would also strip the audit committee of its power to conduct independent investigations into financial issues, consolidating power within the presidency. Several senior figures have left the FIA amid these scandals, raising concerns about governance and accountability within the organization. Critics argue that these reforms may shield Ben Sulayem from scrutiny and reinforce his position ahead of the upcoming election for a second term.