Ben Sulayem’s first term as FIA president ends later this year. So far, no one has officially announced their candidacy to challenge him.
But now, rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr., 63, may be preparing to take on the role. According to Autosport, several influential motorsport figures have privately expressed their support for Sainz, who won two World Rally Championship titles during his career.
Sainz has confirmed he is seriously considering a run for president.
“There are plenty of reasons, but I have been driving for more than 40 years and this sport has given me everything,” Sainz told Autosport.
“This possibility (of being president) has been in my mind for some time now, not very deeply, but now I think it could be the right time in my career for me to take the step. I’m confident I can do a good job and put together an excellent team to give back to the sport part of what it has given me,” the Spanish legend added.
Sainz has built an extensive motorsport career. After stepping away from the WRC, he transitioned successfully to rally raids, notably the Dakar Rally. In 2024, he claimed his fourth Dakar victory, becoming the oldest winner in the event’s history.
“I have accumulated a lot of experience in this sport throughout the years and I’m certain I can bring new and interesting things, to strengthen and develop the sport and the automobile world,” said Sainz.
Sainz’s son, Carlos Sainz Jr., competes in Formula 1 for Williams. The elder Sainz said he would do everything in his power to avoid any conflict of interest if elected FIA president.
Sainz was also asked about current president Ben Sulayem, whose term has seen several senior FIA figures step down, most recently vice president for sport Robert Reid. Sainz declined to criticise Ben Sulayem, saying he would leave such judgments to others.
“If I do this (run for president) it will not be to fight anyone, it will be out of passion and love for motorsport, because I believe I can help and improve certain things. I believe it is probably the right time for me personally and professionally, and that is why I am considering it,” Sainz emphasised.
The next FIA presidential election will take place on 12 December in Uzbekistan. Sainz will now assess how much support he has behind the scenes before deciding whether to officially enter the race.
