Two-time world rally champion Carlos Sainz Sr. is considering running for FIA president in the elections to be held in Uzbekistan later this year.
The father of Williams Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz Jr. stated that now is the right time to consider running for president.
If he decides to move forward, Sainz Sr. is likely to face current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who is expected to seek a second term.
So far, no other candidates have emerged, although the elections are not scheduled until December 12.
After a long and successful career in the rally world, 63-year-old Sainz Sr. said he would be delighted to give something back to the motorsport world.
There are many reasons, but I have been driving for over 40 years and this sport has given me everything.
Carlos Sainz Sr.
“This possibility [of being president] has been on my mind for some time, not very deeply, but now I believe it could be the right moment in my career to take the step. I am confident that I can do a good job and put together an excellent team to give back to the sport some of what it has given me.”
“I have accumulated a lot of experience in this sport over the years and I am sure that I can bring new and interesting things, to strengthen and develop the sport and the automotive world.”
Ben Sulayem was elected FIA president in 2021 after Jean Todt, who had held the position for 12 years, stepped down at the end of his third term.
The Emirati’s time in office has been marred by controversy, and recently, FIA deputy director Robert Reid resigned from his position after citing a “fundamental breakdown in governance standards” at the FIA.
Reid’s resignation came after he and the head of UK motorsport, David Richards, were banned from attending a meeting of the World Motor Sport Council after refusing to sign a confidentiality agreement.
Sainz Sr. said that his reasons for considering the position were not to fight against any individual, but because he believed it was the best moment for him personally to run for the office.
I think that obviously lately there has been some controversy, but I want to focus on myself. I leave the judgment to others.
Carlos Sainz Sr.
“If I do this [run for president] it won’t be to fight against anyone, it will be out of passion and love for motorsport, because I believe I can help and improve certain things.”
“I think it’s probably the right time for me personally and professionally, and that’s why I’m considering it.”
Sainz Sr. also downplayed the potential conflict of interest that could arise from being president while his son is an active F1 driver.
I have my history and people know me well enough to understand that this will not be a problem.
Carlos Sainz Sr.
“Obviously, I will have to give up my role with Carlos and his career, but this is not a problem at all.”
“He’s no longer a child, he’s been in F1 for a decade and we both know that if I continue with this project, our relationship will change, of course.”
“FIA is a very serious entity and there will be no conflict”.
