While the roar of Formula 1 engines often dominates headlines, another crucial race is unfolding off-track: the battle for the presidency of the FIA, motorsport`s global governing body. This contest, set for December 2025, has already begun with remarkable intensity, pitting the incumbent, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, against a challenger from within the system, American Tim Mayer.
The Contenders Emerge
Mohammed Ben Sulayem is seeking a second four-year term at the helm of the Fédération Internationale de l`Automobile. He took over from Jean Todt, who reached the organization`s three-term limit. Ben Sulayem`s tenure has overseen numerous aspects of global motorsport and mobility, navigating the complex relationship with commercial entities like Formula 1.
Challenging him is Tim Mayer, a figure with extensive experience in motorsport governance. His background includes significant roles in US motorsport and a previous position as a long-time FIA steward in Formula 1. Mayer`s decision to run adds a layer of intrigue, particularly given recent events.
A Combative Start: Dismissal and Accusations
The early phase of this presidential campaign is proving anything but quiet. A significant factor fueling the current tension is Ben Sulayem`s decision last November to remove Mayer from his steward position. While Mayer states his decision to challenge is not motivated by “revenge,” he acknowledges that his dismissal provided “an opportunity to reflect on the state of the FIA.”
This reflection has seemingly led to strong conclusions and equally strong public statements. Mayer has notably accused Ben Sulayem of fostering a “reign of terror” within the organization. He also alleges that the incumbent has sought to concentrate power in his own hands and presented an “illusion of inclusion” rather than genuine representation.
The Incumbent Responds
How does the sitting president react to such pointed attacks from a former appointee? When presented with Mayer`s claim of a “reign of terror,” Ben Sulayem reportedly dismissed it with laughter. He framed the accusations as typical electioneering tactics, perhaps drawing a comparison to the often-combative style seen in politics, specifically mentioning the United States (a wry observation, considering his challenger`s nationality and background). Ben Sulayem stated that such negative campaigning is “not my style” and that he would not engage in similar accusations.
He also offered counter-arguments to Mayer`s more specific allegations regarding the “illusion of inclusion” and the concentration of power, indicating a disagreement with the challenger`s assessment of the FIA`s internal dynamics under his leadership.
The Electoral Landscape and Shifting Alliances
It is crucial to understand who holds the power to elect the next FIA president. The vote is cast not by the teams or stakeholders of championships like Formula 1, but by the 245 global member clubs that represent motorsport and mobility interests worldwide. This structure means the candidates must campaign on a truly international stage, seeking support across diverse regions and priorities.
Reports suggest that Mohammed Ben Sulayem retains significant popularity among many of these member federations, particularly in areas like South America. This gives the incumbent a potential advantage that Mayer will need to overcome. Interestingly, some figures who previously aligned with Ben Sulayem in the 2021 election, such as Motorsport UK chair David Richards, have reportedly become vocal critics, hinting at potential shifts in alliances within the FIA`s political structure. Former insiders, like Robert Reid (Ben Sulayem`s former deputy president for sport), are also said to have offered counsel to Mayer, suggesting the challenger is attempting to build a broad coalition.
While Tim Mayer faces a substantial challenge against an incumbent with established support, the early, combative start ensures the race for the FIA presidency will be a closely watched and potentially revealing process. The outcome will shape the direction of global motorsport governance for the next four years, impacting everything from regulations and safety to the relationship with its premier championships.
Gilbert Pendleton