Tim Mayer, a former prominent Formula 1 steward, has officially announced his intention to challenge incumbent Mohammed Ben Sulayem for the presidency of the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l`Automobile). The election is scheduled for December.
Mayer, who has a long history as an official in US motorsport and is the son of McLaren co-founder Teddy Mayer, confirmed his candidacy during a press conference held near Silverstone on Friday morning, ahead of this weekend`s British Grand Prix.
Launching his campaign, which he has titled “FIA Forward,” Mayer stated: “It`s time for new energy, a new focus, and renewed integrity at the core of our federation.”
Mayer served as an F1 steward for 15 years. However, in November of last year, he stated he was dismissed from the role following repercussions from the United States Grand Prix. In a separate capacity as alternate delegate for US GPs, he had represented the Circuit of the Americas in a right of review hearing after the circuit was fined €500,000 (with €350,000 suspended until December 2026) due to a fan track invasion at the end of the race.
When questioned if his decision to run was motivated by `revenge,` Mayer firmly denied it. He explained: “It truly is not. His request for me to resign as a Formula 1 steward gave me an opportunity to reflect on the FIA`s values. What kind of organisation do we aspire to be?”
He continued: “This period has highlighted my belief that we urgently need a professional organisation that values its volunteers and Member Clubs, and actively seeks growth, especially in under-served regions. I have always been passionate about the FIA, and the events of last year only intensified that passion, rather than lessening it.”
Last week, two-time World Rally champion Carlos Sainz Sr, father of the Williams F1 driver, announced his decision not to pursue the presidency, stating that “circumstances are not ideal to lay the groundwork for my candidacy.”
The FIA election is scheduled for December 12 during the general assembly in Uzbekistan. It is here that the global member clubs of the governing body for motorsport will vote to elect a president for the upcoming four-year term.
Ben Sulayem, a former rally driver himself, was elected president in December 2021, defeating Briton Graham Stoker. This followed the departure of long-serving president Jean Todt, who had reached the FIA`s constitutional limit of three terms.
In a statement regarding the election process, the FIA outlined its procedures: “The FIA Presidential election is a structured and democratic process designed to ensure fairness, transparency, and integrity throughout every stage. It adheres strictly to the FIA Statutes. The election of the Presidential List, which includes the President, is conducted by FIA Member Clubs holding full voting rights, representing both the Sport and Mobility sectors of the federation.”
The statement added: “In accordance with the FIA`s commitment to impartiality and equal treatment for all candidates, FIA staff are mandated to maintain strict neutrality throughout this process. The Federation will continue its normal operations, fulfilling its duties to its Members across all facets of motorsport and mobility.”
Gilbert Pendleton 
Wesley Dunham