Sainz, 63, a two-time World Rally Champion, said in May that he was considering entering the race for the FIA presidency. At the time, he stated that the moment might be right for him to take a step towards the role of FIA boss.
However, Sainz has now decided not to challenge the current FIA president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, in the election scheduled for December. In a statement published on social media, Sainz said that the FIA still needs to implement important changes, which he hopes will be realised in the coming years.
Sainz says he will continue to focus on his own racing career and next year’s Dakar Rally.
“I have realised that properly running for president would notably compromise my preparation for the Dakar and I do not wish to weaken my commitment to Ford and my team,” Sainz explained.
“These concerns have therefore inclined me to be realistic and desist from my FIA endeavour for now.”
So far, the only official candidate in the FIA presidential election is the current head of the organisation, Ben Sulayem, whose first term has included several controversial decisions.
In the world of rallying, the biggest stir was caused earlier this year by the so-called swearing controversy, which led drivers to form their own drivers’ association, WoRDA, after Rally Sweden. During the Safari Rally in Kenya in March, the drivers refused to give interviews at the end of special stages. After that rally, the drivers and the FIA managed to reach a mutual understanding.
Several World Rally Championship stars had voiced their support for Sainz’s potential FIA candidacy. Sainz has had a long and successful career in motorsport and has recently achieved great results in the Dakar Rally. He won the iconic event for the fourth time in 2024.
