FIA President Ben Sulayem Confirms Re-election Bid

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the incumbent FIA President, has formally announced his intention to run for re-election later this year, setting the stage for a contest against American official Tim Mayer.

Why it matters:

• This election will determine the leadership of motorsport's global governing body for the next four years, shaping the future direction of Formula 1 and other international championships.

The big picture:

• Ben Sulayem, who has served as President since December 2021, launched his 'FIA For Members' campaign with the theme 'A Lot Done. More To Do.'
• He faces competition from Tim Mayer, who unveiled his 'FIA Forward' campaign during the British Grand Prix earlier this summer.
• The FIA General Assembly will hold the presidential vote on December 12th in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

The details:

• Ben Sulayem's proposed Presidential List includes Carmelo Sanz de Barros as president of the Senate, Tim Shearman for automobile mobility and tourism, and Malcolm Wilson for sport.
• Candidates for the full Presidential List, including seven vice-presidents for sport from various regions, must submit their applications between October 3rd and 24th.
• Mayer has released portions of his manifesto focusing on governance and mobility, with his sport manifesto still to be revealed.
• Ben Sulayem's complete campaign manifesto is expected to be released this Wednesday, outlining his vision for serving member clubs.
• Early indications suggest strong support for Ben Sulayem from member clubs in the MENA and Americas regions.

What he's saying:

• Ben Sulayem had previously downplayed the election, stating his primary focus was finalizing the Concorde Agreement.
• He now views the election as a "race," asserting confidence in his work and the "transformation" achieved during his tenure for FIA members.
• He emphasized that the decision ultimately rests with the member clubs, not external influences. "It is the members who vote," Ben Sulayem stated.