Sainz confident in father's potential FIA presidency: ‘no conflict of interest’
Carlos Sainz Jr. Supports Father’s Potential FIA Presidential Run
IMOLA – Williams Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz Jr. expressed confidence that his father, motorsport legend Carlos Sainz Sr., could successfully run for the presidency of the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile) without any conflicts of interest arising from his son's career on the grid. Sainz Sr. is reportedly weighing the possibility of entering the race for the FIA's top position ahead of the December election, potentially squaring off against current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
No Concerns Over Conflicts of Interest
Despite the natural questions surrounding a scenario where the FIA president’s son remains an active competitor in Formula 1, Sainz Jr. was quick to dismiss any concerns. The Williams driver assured the motorsport community that both he and his father are committed to maintaining impeccable ethical standards.
"I've been trying to think of scenarios where it could, but I actually don't see any way how that could be seen," Sainz said. "If anything, obviously he will be extremely careful; I will be extremely careful because the last thing that I want is my or his image or career to be damaged by that situation."
Sainz Jr. underscored his belief in the integrity of both himself and his father, highlighting their determination to avoid any situation that might compromise the sport.
"If anything, we would do the opposite effect," he emphasized. "The moment you personally know my dad or you personally know me, we are honest people that would never ever compromise that situation in motorsport."
Encouragement from the Motorsport Community
The possibility of Sainz Sr., a two-time World Rally Champion and Dakar Rally icon, entering the FIA presidential race came after encouragement from within the motorsport community. According to Sainz Jr., the notion of pursuing the role wasn’t initially his father’s idea but rather something others around him began to advocate for.
"We've been talking about it for a while now," Sainz Jr. explained. "Interestingly enough, I think it's something that didn’t actually come from him. A lot of people in the paddock were kind of putting it in his head, and little by little he started considering it. And now he's obviously thinking about it."
While his father has yet to announce his candidacy or assemble a campaign team, Sainz Jr. noted that the decision is still under active consideration and would depend on how viable the opportunity appears in the coming weeks.
"I think the key is that he still hasn't put together a team or a candidature—I'm not sure how you call it," Sainz Jr. said. "But he's considering it, and depending obviously on how he sees it and sees fit, he will go for it or not. So, let's see."
Prepared to Address Doubts
As speculation mounts ahead of the FIA presidential elections, one thing remains clear: if Carlos Sainz Sr. does throw his hat in the ring, the Sainz family is ready to confront potential doubts head-on. While challenges may arise, Sainz Jr. is adamant that his father’s candidacy would proceed with the utmost professionalism.
A Decision with Global Implications
For now, the motorsport world waits to see whether the rally legend will officially put his name on the ballot for the FIA presidency campaign, an election that could have wide-reaching implications for the governing body and beyond.
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