The president of the FIA, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, has dismissed claims of a harsh leadership style and stated that the organization’s member clubs appear content with the idea of him continuing for another term.
Ben Sulayem’s first term as FIA president concludes in December. The 63-year-old has confirmed his intention to seek re-election and will compete against Tim Mayer, who declared his candidacy ahead of the British Grand Prix.
Several prominent figures have departed the FIA during Ben Sulayem’s tenure. His deputy, Robert Reid, a former rally co-driver, stepped down earlier this year. Ben Sulayem has also had public disagreements with Formula One and its top drivers, notably Lewis Hamilton over in-race jewelry rules and Max Verstappen regarding language used during broadcasts.
Mayer, who was removed as head of the FIA stewards last November, criticized Ben Sulayem’s leadership as ineffective and lacking transparency. He also alleged that the president has sidelined women and accelerated rule changes to consolidate authority.
In response, Ben Sulayem said, *"I sympathize with those making these claims, but they are not deeply involved with the FIA. Mayer served as a steward, but that does not make him an insider. I have more pressing responsibilities than engaging in campaigns. The FIA is larger than any individual, including me. The members decide who leads, and I know my work has served them well."*
He added, *"We will see at the general assembly whether they wish to replace me. The choice is theirs. When I see them smiling—whether genuinely or not—it reflects their stance."*
Ben Sulayem previously clashed with F1 and its teams over expanding the grid with an 11th entry. However, Cadillac, backed by General Motors and TWG Motorsport, will join the championship next season.
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