A loophole in the FIA regulations prevents any opposition from running: Ben Sulayem will be re-elected automatically
It’s now official: Mohammed Ben Sulayem will remain FIA president for a second term without any elections being held. Behind this automatic re-election lies a loophole in the regulations of the governing body of world motorsport, which effectively prevented any opposition from running.
Ben Sulayem stays as FIA President: here’s why
According to the FIA’s internal rules, each presidential candidate must present a list of six vice presidents, each from a different region of the world. This little-known and difficult requirement turned out to be decisive, excluding all rivals to Ben Sulayem.
One of the regions — South America — has only one eligible representative: Fabiana Ecclestone, wife of former Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone, who is already part of Ben Sulayem’s team. Without her inclusion, no other candidate could complete the mandatory list, effectively making them ineligible.
Tim Mayer, one of the main challengers, officially withdrew from the race during the U.S. Grand Prix weekend, publicly denouncing the situation. “The FIA presidential election is over. There will be only one candidate — the incumbent. This isn’t democracy; it’s the illusion of democracy,” Mayer said in a press conference. The son of former McLaren manager Teddy Mayer also spoke of “unchecked power” and a “theatrical process,” announcing he will file ethical complaints against the FIA.
The FIA, however, stood firm in defense of its process, stating that “all candidates had sufficient time, since June 13, to prepare their nominations” and that “the procedure remains fully consistent with democratic principles.”
David Richards, chairman of Motorsport UK, openly criticized what he called “an erosion of accountability and good governance,” while former FIA Vice President Robert Reid — who resigned in April — denounced a “breakdown of ethical standards” within the organization.
The vote scheduled for December 12 will now be a mere formality: with all other candidates excluded, Mohammed Ben Sulayem will automatically be re-elected as President of the legendary Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile.
Photo: FIA, F1.com
