Carlos Sainz Sr. mulls FIA presidency amid stirring speculation
Carlos Sainz Sr. Considers FIA Presidency Bid Ahead of December Elections
Legendary two-time World Rally champion Carlos Sainz Sr. has revealed he is seriously considering a bid for the presidency of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) in the highly anticipated elections slated for December 12 in Uzbekistan. This potential move by the Spanish motorsport icon could see him challenge current FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who is widely expected to seek a second term.
Speaking with Autosport, Sainz Sr., father of Williams Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz Jr., candidly expressed that “now is the right time” for him to weigh the decision to vie for the prestigious role.
A Desire to Give Back to the Sport
Sainz Sr., 63, emphasized that his motivations stem from a desire to dedicate himself to advancing the sport to which he has devoted decades of his life. Reflecting on a glittering career that spans over 40 years, Sainz Sr. shared:
“There are plenty of reasons, but I have been driving for more than 40 years and this sport has given me everything.
This possibility [of being president] has been in my mind for some time now, not very deeply, but now I think it could be the right time in my career for me to take the step. I'm confident I can do a good job and put together an excellent team to give back to the sport part of what it has given me."
The former rallying star also highlighted his extensive experience in motorsport as a valuable asset to potentially lead the FIA:
“I have accumulated a lot of experience in this sport throughout the years, and I’m certain I can bring new and interesting things to strengthen and develop the sport and the automobile world,” he said.
Challenges Under Current FIA Leadership
The FIA has faced turbulent times under Ben Sulayem’s leadership, which began in 2021 following Jean Todt’s 12-year tenure as president. Controversies surrounding governance issues have marred Ben Sulayem's administration, with notable incidents including the resignation of deputy president Robert Reid last month. Reid stepped down citing what he called a “fundamental breakdown in governance standards” at motorsport’s governing body.
The fallout continued when Reid and UK motorsport chief David Richards were excluded from a meeting of the World Motor Sport Council for refusing to sign an imposed nondisclosure agreement. Additionally, several prominent voices in the F1 paddock, including Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, have criticized the FIA's approach to driver conduct and have called for a more formalized role for drivers in shaping the sport’s regulations.
Sainz Sr.'s Vision and Approach
While Sainz Sr. acknowledged the recent controversies, he stressed that his intention to run is not driven by opposition to any individual but by his personal readiness to embrace the challenge:
“I think obviously lately there has been some controversy, but I want to concentrate on myself. I leave the judgment to others. If I do this [run for president], it will not be to fight anyone. It will be out of passion and love for motorsport, because I believe I can help and improve certain things. I believe it is probably the right time for me personally and professionally, and that is why I am considering it.”
Addressing the Issue of Potential Conflicts
One of the concerns surrounding Sainz Sr.’s potential candidacy is the possibility of a conflict of interest given his son’s current tenure as an active Formula 1 driver. However, the Spaniard dismissed such concerns and reassured stakeholders of his ability to remain impartial:
“I have my track record and people know me well enough to understand that this will not be an issue,” Sainz Sr. stated confidently. “Obviously, I will have to step down regarding my role with Carlos and his career, but this is not an issue at all.
He’s not a child anymore. He has been in F1 for a decade now and we both know that if I go ahead with this project, our relationship will change, of course. The FIA is a very serious entity and there will be no conflict.”
Awaiting an Official Candidacy
As of now, no additional challengers have thrown their hats into the ring for the FIA presidency, leaving the motorsport world speculating whether Sainz Sr. will indeed make his candidacy official. With his unparalleled legacy in rallying and a clear vision for the future of motorsport, his potential bid may offer an alternative direction for an organization grappling with internal and external challenges alike.
A Legacy in the Making
For now, Carlos Sainz Sr.’s fans and the motorsport community at large will wait to see whether this celebrated competitor can add “FIA president” to his storied repertoire.
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