Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz Jr has dismissed concerns about a potential conflict of interest if his father, former World Rally champion Carlos Sainz Sr, were to seek the presidency of the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l`Automobile).
Carlos Sainz Sr confirmed last week that he is contemplating running in the December election, which could pit him against the current president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
Questions have been raised to both father and son regarding the potential conflict that could arise from Sainz Sr heading motorsport`s global governing body, which oversees Formula 1, while Sainz Jr is an active participant in the sport.
Speaking ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix weekend, Sainz Jr clarified to Sky Sports F1: “Very simply, my dad and I would go our separate ways. He would no longer be my manager.”
He added, “I`m a Formula 1 driver approaching 30 who also has my manager, my cousin. We would just simply stop our working relationship.”
Sainz Jr emphasized that anyone who knows them personally is aware they would never engage in any activity that could create a conflict of interest.
“Many people in the paddock suggested he should do it”
Sainz Jr was keen to stress that his father`s consideration of the role was prompted by “a lot of people in the paddock” encouraging him.
“First of all, it`s just a possibility; it`s not certain that he will present himself or become a candidate. He`s simply considering it,” Sainz Jr explained.
“To be honest, the idea didn`t originate much from him. It came from many people in the paddock suggesting it to him and planting the idea in his head, which led him to start considering it.”
“He will, of course, evaluate his options, his potential candidacy, and his chances. Speaking as his son and a big fan, I believe he fits the profile extremely well.”
He continued, “I don`t think anyone understands motorsport better than my dad across such a wide spectrum, from rallying to go-karting – because he attended all my go-kart races – through the single-seater ladder, and now Formula 1.”
“He has a remarkably broad experience of everything, including mobility aspects with all his work in Spain.”
“He definitely fits the profile, but ultimately, it will be up to him whether he feels fit to consider being a candidate or not.”
What do Sainz`s fellow drivers say?
Several leading F1 drivers were also asked about Carlos Sainz Sr`s potential candidacy during the Imola weekend.
George Russell, a director of the Grand Prix Drivers` Association, commented: “Carlos Sr, he`s a great guy. He`s got so much knowledge of motorsport… Let`s see. You`ve got to give it to him, it could be something good.”
World champion Max Verstappen, a former teammate of Carlos Sainz Jr at Toro Rosso, added: “I think Carlos Sr, he`s a very well-respected person in the paddock here but also for his achievements in rally.”
“A lot of people would support that. Naturally, people will say, `ah, but he`s conflicted with his son in Formula 1.` But, to be honest, I think Carlos Sr is very professional and he can definitely put that aside. I don`t think we need to worry about that, if that`s a problem for someone.”
Gilbert Pendleton