Ben Sulayem laughs off ‘reign of terror’ allegations ahead of FIA election
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem Denies Claims of ‘Reign of Terror’ Ahead of Election
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has dismissed claims of a ‘reign of terror’ within motorsport’s governing body, describing them as “ridiculous” in an interview on Sunday. Speaking ahead of the upcoming FIA presidential election in December, the Emirati leader vowed the process would be both fair and transparent as he seeks a second term. His sole declared opponent, American Tim Mayer, recently announced his candidacy, sparking a heated contest for the role.
Tim Mayer’s Criticism
Mayer made his intentions known during a press conference before the British Formula 1 Grand Prix at Silverstone. In his announcement, Mayer criticized what he described as a leadership failure under Ben Sulayem’s tenure.
"Those people work very hard. They deserve leadership that provides them with tools, with a vision, with resources and, more than anything else, does not have a reign of terror every time they walk into the office," Mayer said.
Ben Sulayem, however, found the accusation laughable, denying any such characterization of his leadership.
"I just laughed. I actually had a smile," Ben Sulayem told Reuters. "I said whoever is saying this, they are disconnected with the FIA. Honestly.”
The FIA headquarters, notably located in Paris's famed Place de la Concorde—an area historically associated with public executions during the French Revolution’s infamous ‘Reign of Terror’—added an ironic backdrop to the debate over governance in motorsport.
Criticism and High-Profile Departures
Since Ben Sulayem took office in 2021, a wave of high-profile departures from the FIA has fueled criticism, including the resignation of former Deputy President for Sport Robert Reid in April. Reid publicly voiced concerns about the decision-making process under Ben Sulayem's leadership.
"Decisions are being made behind closed doors, bypassing the very structures and people the FIA exists to represent," Reid declared upon stepping down.
Ben Sulayem’s tenure has also included controversial changes to FIA statutes, which critics argue have created barriers for challengers seeking the presidency. Despite this, the 61-year-old former rally driver defended his record, highlighting financial transparency and governance improvements within the organization.
"Truly, numbers do not lie... the members are happier, they can see that the money is invested back in," said Ben Sulayem. "Have you ever read any article where I said something negatively about a single person? That’s not me."
Defense of Leadership
In May, while speaking to Reuters, Ben Sulayem notably remarked he had "cleaned up the FIA house" and removed people aiming to sabotage his leadership. When reminded of this statement, he humorously added:
"It’s not because they don’t want to stab me, it’s because there’s no space left."
As for the election itself, Ben Sulayem welcomes the competitive dynamic, likening it to his rally-driving days:
"It’s like putting your helmet and gloves back on. Really, it reminds me of competitions, and competition is always good. We have such clear guidelines that now you cannot fiddle around with anything, and that will never happen—not in my reign."
Tim Mayer’s Credentials
His challenger, Tim Mayer, 59, brings significant experience to the table. The son of former McLaren team principal Teddy Mayer has served in various prominent roles, including senior vice president of racing operations at IndyCar/Champ Car and COO of the IMSA and American Le Mans Series. Mayer has also acted as a voluntary FIA steward, commission member, and U.S. national association representative.
With these credentials and a bold critique of the incumbent leadership, Mayer sets the stage for a potentially intense showdown in December, as the FIA prepares to elect its next president.
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