Mohammed Ben Sulayem has been re-elected as President of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), securing a second four-year term at the General Assembly in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The election, held yesterday, confirms Ben Sulayem’s continued leadership of the global motorsport governing body. His re-election follows a period focused on financial recovery and governance improvements within the FIA.
Ben Sulayem’s victory comes as the FIA navigates a rapidly evolving landscape in both motorsport and mobility. The organization, responsible for overseeing Formula 1 and numerous other racing series, as well as advocating for road safety and sustainable transport, has seen significant changes under his initial leadership since 2021. This re-election signals a continuation of those efforts.
FIA President Re-elected: A Focus on Motorsport and Mobility
The FIA, founded in 1904, represents over 100 million motorists and their families worldwide. It’s a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting safe, sustainable, and accessible mobility, as well as the development of motorsport. Ben Sulayem’s campaign centered on building upon the progress made in his first term, emphasizing financial stability and increased transparency.
One of the key achievements highlighted during Ben Sulayem’s first term is the FIA’s financial turnaround. According to the organization, a €24 million loss in 2021 was reversed to a €4.7 million operating profit in 2024, marking the strongest financial result in nearly a decade. This improvement is attributed to cost-cutting measures and increased revenue streams.
However, Ben Sulayem’s first term wasn’t without challenges. He faced scrutiny over decisions related to race direction in Formula 1 and navigated complex negotiations with commercial rights holders and teams. These experiences likely shaped his approach to the re-election process and his future priorities.
Governance and Operational Improvements
Beyond the financial aspects, Ben Sulayem has prioritized strengthening the FIA’s governance structure. This included streamlining internal processes and enhancing accountability. The aim is to create a more efficient and responsive organization capable of addressing the evolving needs of its member clubs and the wider motorsport community.
The FIA has also increased its focus on sustainability, promoting the use of alternative fuels and technologies in motorsport. This aligns with broader global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to a more environmentally friendly future. The organization is actively involved in developing standards for electric vehicle charging infrastructure and advocating for policies that support sustainable mobility.
Furthermore, the FIA has been working to improve diversity and inclusion within motorsport, aiming to create more opportunities for women and underrepresented groups. This initiative reflects a growing awareness of the importance of inclusivity in all areas of sport and society. The development of grassroots programs and the promotion of role models are key components of this effort.
“Thank you to all our FIA Members for voting in remarkable numbers and placing your trust in me once again,” Ben Sulayem stated following the election. “We have overcome many obstacles but here today, together, we are stronger than ever. It is truly an honour to be FIA President, and I am committed to continuing to deliver for the FIA, for motorsport, for mobility, and for our Member Clubs in every region around the world.”
Looking ahead, Ben Sulayem’s second term will likely focus on consolidating the gains made in his first term and addressing ongoing challenges within the FIA. Key areas of attention will include finalizing the next generation of Formula 1 engine regulations, continuing to promote sustainable mobility solutions, and fostering greater collaboration between the FIA and its member clubs. The future direction of motorsport regulations and the organization’s response to emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, will also be crucial.
The next major milestone for the FIA is the World Motor Sport Council meeting scheduled for December 2023, where key decisions regarding the 2024 racing calendars and regulatory updates are expected to be made. Observers will be watching closely to see how the FIA balances the competing interests of its various stakeholders and navigates the complex challenges facing the sport and the mobility sector.
