FIA faces serious governance challenges, says former CEO Natalie Robyn

Dominika Jordan
Apr 10, 2025, 2:00 PM ET

Former FIA CEO Natalie Robyn highlights governance challenges after VP Reid's resignation.

Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool

SAKHIR, Bahrain -- Former FIA CEO Natalie Robyn has voiced concerns about racing's governing body facing "serious ongoing structural challenges," following the abrupt resignation of Vice President Robert Reid. Robyn, who left the FIA in May 2024 after an 18-month tenure, provided her first interview since departing, speaking to the BBC amid the current turmoil.

In a strongly-worded statement, Reid cited a "fundamental breakdown in governance standards" as his reason for stepping down. His sudden exit has sent shockwaves through the F1 community, with Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA) head George Russell expressing concern that the FIA is heading in an "unstable direction."

Robyn shed light on the internal issues during her time with the FIA, indicating that Reid's resignation is symptomatic of broader, underlying problems.

"During my tenure as CEO, I worked under challenging circumstances to strengthen the federation's governance framework and upgrade its operational transparency," she told the BBC. "The resignation of the deputy president of sport clearly indicates there are serious ongoing structural challenges."

Robyn emphasized the importance of adherence to professional processes and inclusive decision-making to maintain the integrity of an organization.

"When professional processes are not adhered to and stakeholders are excluded from decision-making, it undermines the foundation of a strong organization. I am saddened to see these developments, as they threaten both the credibility and the long-term effectiveness of an important institution," she added.

Reid's resignation followed an incident where he and Motorsport UK head Dave Richards were blocked from attending a World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) meeting after refusing to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA).

Reflecting on her working relationship with Reid, Robyn stated, "I worked closely with Robert during my time at the FIA and I have a great deal of respect for him and of course his commitment to the future of motorsport."

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who is facing re-election at the end of the year, is due to attend the Bahrain Grand Prix this week. His presence will inevitably draw further scrutiny as the racing world watches how the FIA navigates these challenging times.