In early May, major news broke when rally legend and two-time world champion Carlos Sainz revealed he was considering challenging current FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
Ben Sulayem’s first term as president is set to end in December. He was elected to the role in December 2021.
His four-year tenure has been marked by several controversies. He has been accused of making sexist remarks and of having an authoritarian leadership style. These issues have already led to, among other things, the resignation of vice president Robert Reid.
Ben Sulayem has confirmed that he intends to seek re-election. At the time of his announcement, he made rather defiant statements, claiming to have “cleaned the the FIA house” and declaring that “there are no more knives in my back.”
Within the World Rally Championship, Sainz’s potential candidacy has generally been met with positivity. Drivers such as Sébastien Ogier and Thierry Neuville have already voiced their support for the Spaniard.
Hyundai team principal Cyril Abiteboul, however, was more cautious in his comments. When asked about Sainz’s possible candidacy, he responded with a carefully worded and diplomatic answer.
“I think having multiple candidates is a good thing. It’s important in any election. In any election, voters should be given options,” Abiteboul began.
“So I think it’s good. Just like our current president, Carlos Sainz is coming with a huge rally background. So for the sport, you know, it’s obviously equally good news,” he added.
However, Abiteboul declined to comment on whether it would be in the FIA’s best interest to change leadership.
“Just as him running for the presidency a few years back was also positive news. So we welcome the fact that voters will have an option.”
The election for the next FIA president will take place in December. Current president Ben Sulayem has already secured significant support, for example from the Americas.
