36 Automobile Clubs Rally Behind FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem

Carlos Sainz Sr. Faces Setback in FIA Presidential Bid

Carlos Sainz Sr., the renowned two-time world rally champion and four-time Dakar Rally victor, has encountered a significant obstacle in his campaign to unseat Mohammed Ben Sulayem as the president of the FIA. Recent reports indicate that a substantial number of automobile clubs have expressed their support for the incumbent president through a formal letter.

Many speculated that Ben Sulayem would not face any opposition in the upcoming presidential elections later this year, with some sources suggesting that Sainz might be preparing to challenge for the position. However, the support for Ben Sulayem appears to be robust, as it includes backing from 36 FIA member clubs primarily located in the Americas, along with endorsements from senior officials, such as FIA Vice President for Sport in South America, Fabiana Ecclestone.

Support for Ben Sulayem

The letter of endorsement, addressed to President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, articulates gratitude for his service, vision, and the successful implementation of his promises. “Dear President Mohammed, on behalf of the member clubs listed below, we express our sincere appreciation for your commitment and the delivery of your Manifesto,” the letter states. The signatories note their awareness of the challenging financial circumstances that Ben Sulayem faced upon assuming office. They express admiration for the decisive actions he took to stabilize the organization, highlighting the impressive turnaround achieved within four years.

The letter outlines the inclusive approach that Ben Sulayem and his leadership team have adopted towards the member clubs. The club presidents emphasize their appreciation for how their concerns have been respected and addressed, reinforcing a sense of community and collaboration. They recognize the significant strides made under his leadership, positioning the FIA as a key player in the realms of mobility and motorsport.

Call for Continued Leadership

The communication concludes with a call for Ben Sulayem to seek re-election at the forthcoming Annual General Assembly (AGA), emphasizing the importance of continuing the ambitious reforms he has initiated. The tone reflects optimism and confidence in the positive trajectory of the FIA under his leadership.

Notable figures among the supporters include Fabiana Ecclestone, the wife of former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone, and Carmelo Sanz de Barros, who holds dual titles as the president of RACE (Real Automovil Club de España) and the FIA Senate president. Their endorsement is significant, given their influential roles both within the FIA and the broader motorsport community.

List of Supporters

Several prominent figures from various FIA member clubs have joined the call in support of Ben Sulayem, showcasing a diverse representation from different regions. Key signatories include:

– Ricardo Morales Rubio – President of the Colombia Motorsport Federation and FIA Region IV (South America and Central America).
– Frank Fotia – COO of the Canadian Automobile Association and FIA Region III (North America and the Caribbean).
– Daniel Coen – President of the Costa Rica Motorsport Federation.
– Gorki Obando – ECU FIA nominee.
– Selwyn Persad – Board Member of the Trinidad and Tobago Automobile Association.

The list extends to encompass presidents and officials from various other nations, reflecting broad support from across the Americas. This network of endorsements highlights a concerted effort to uphold Ben Sulayem’s presidency.

The Challenges Ahead for Sainz

Given the substantial backing for Ben Sulayem, Sainz Sr.’s path forward in the presidential challenge looks increasingly daunting. His public persona, built on decades of success in motorsport, has placed him in the spotlight. However, the support for Ben Sulayem serves as a reminder of the complex dynamics within the FIA, with members often aligning for a variety of strategic reasons. This robust backing will be a difficult challenge for Sainz, who will need to galvanize his own support base to mount a credible challenge.

Ben Sulayem’s presidency has not been without controversies, including decisions that have generated friction within the motorsport community, such as restricting access to FIA meetings and implementing a controversial ban on swearing among drivers. These actions have drawn criticism but have not substantially dampened the current president’s support as evidenced by the recent endorsements.

Looking Ahead

As the FIA prepares for the upcoming election, the divisions within its membership may become more pronounced. The contrasting visions for the FIA’s future will take center stage, with Sainz potentially needing to present a clear and compelling alternative if he wishes to change the status quo.

In the coming months, it will be of interest to observe how both Sainz and Ben Sulayem adapt their strategies leading into the elections, and whether any new alliances form within the FIA. The recent show of support for Ben Sulayem serves as a formidable reminder of the challenges any challenger faces in this environment.

Conclusion

The upcoming FIA presidential elections will play a crucial role in shaping the future direction of the organization. As Carlos Sainz Sr. navigates the obstacles ahead, the clarity of his vision for the FIA and his ability to consolidate support will significantly influence the outcome of this pivotal moment in motorsport governance. Ben Sulayem’s substantial backing offers a formidable foundation for his re-election campaign, heightening the stakes for Sainz as he contemplates his next steps. As the landscape evolves, the coming months promise to be a fascinating period of development within the FIA and its leadership trajectory.