At the dawn of the Bahrain Grand Prix, the FIA’s organizational structure is shaken by a new and significant departure: that of Robert Reid.
Cracks within the organizational structure of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) seem to be widening, as the federation continues to lose key figures. The latest development is the resignation of Robert Reid, Vice President for Sport, which reportedly came alongside serious accusations directed at Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
The former rally driver, who joined the FIA family in 2021, confirmed the internal breakdown, stating that his decision stemmed from the incompatibility between his personal ideals and the vision of the Federation, and calling for motor sports leadership to be founded on integrity and responsibility.
“When I accepted this position, I did so to serve the members of the FIA, not power. Over time, I’ve witnessed a steady erosion of the principles we had pledged to uphold ,” Reid began in a statement published via his social media channels, before going on to explain the reasons behind his decision.
“Decisions have been made in secret, bypassing the structures and individuals the FIA is meant to respect. I took this role to help increase transparency, ensure stronger governance, and promote more collaborative leadership. I can no longer be part of a system that doesn’t reflect my ideals, even though stepping back was not easy. Staying on would have compromised what I believe in — and I’m referring to principles, not politics. . Motorsport deserves leadership based on integrity, accountability, and respect for proper procedures. This is the minimum standard we should all expect and demand ,” the former vice president concluded.
On the eve of the event at the Sakhir Circuit, this news damages not only the FIA’s public image, but also that of its President, who has already faced mounting criticism in recent months. Reid’s departure follows the recent resignation of Niels Wittich, which was officially attributed to his desire to “pursue new opportunities“.
Photo: FIA, Formula 1.
