Statutory Changes in the FIA Generate Controversy
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) approved statutory modifications that, according to critics, could hinder challenges to the re-election of President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. A FIA spokesperson, which also oversees world championships such as rally and Formula E, announced that a “strong majority” voted in favor during the General Assembly held in Macao. Specific figures were not provided. Ben Sulayem, from the United Arab Emirates, is seeking a second four-year term in December and currently has no opposition. The FIA, headquartered in Paris, also groups national motorsport associations and promotes road safety. The Austrian Automobile Association (OAMTC) previously urged FIA members to vote against the proposed changes, according to a letter seen by Reuters before the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal. The letter, unsigned and sent by email to the mobility section of the FIA’s world council, warned about the risk of damaging the FIA’s reputation.Ben Sulayem told Reuters last month, when confirming his candidacy, that he welcomes competition in the name of democracy. The president acknowledged having detractors, but expressed confidence in the support of the majority of FIA members.“There is a risk that these changes will benefit the current FIA administration, and not the FIA itself, so they should not be adopted.”
Letter from the Austrian Automobile Association (OAMTC)
The former rally driver has been involved in several controversies since his election in 2021 as the first FIA president from the Middle East. He has had disagreements with pilots and has received internal criticism, in addition to the departure of several important employees. Robert Reid, a former close ally who resigned as FIA deputy vice-president in April, mentioned in his resignation statement a “fundamental collapse in governance standards” at the governing body. Reid and David Richards, director of Motorsport UK, opposed other statutory changes approved at the General Assembly last December, which, according to them, limited the powers of the audit and ethics committees.“I only have to answer to my members. And they are happy. In fact, they are very happy. They are extremely happy”.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem
