The upcoming FIA presidential election in December 2025 has been marred by allegations that current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem is attempting to manipulate the process to secure a second term. With the election drawing near, several controversies have surfaced, raising concerns about the fairness and transparency of the election.
Ben Sulayem, who assumed office in December 2021, has faced numerous criticisms during his tenure. These include clashes with Formula 1 owners regarding financial matters and expansion, accusations of fostering a "culture of fear" within the FIA, and controversies surrounding driver conduct, such as punishments for swearing. His leadership has also been marked by the departure of high-profile figures and concerns over governance standards.
Now, as his first term nears its end, Ben Sulayem is facing accusations of implementing new electoral rules designed to hinder potential rivals. These rules reportedly require any challenger to present a full 10-person leadership team by October 24th, including seven vice-presidents for sport selected from a pre-approved list of only 28 names. This list includes strict regional quotas, and in some regions, the only candidates available are those loyal to Ben Sulayem. For instance, in South America and Africa, reports indicate that the sole eligible candidates support the incumbent, effectively preventing any opponent from fielding a candidate from those regions. Critics argue that these changes make it exceedingly difficult for any challenger to mount a credible campaign.
Several figures have announced their intention to challenge Ben Sulayem, including American Tim Mayer, and Europeans Laura Villars and Virginie Philipott. Mayer, a former FIA steward, has openly criticized Ben Sulayem's leadership, describing it as a "failure" and an "illusion of integrity". He also accused Ben Sulayem of marginalizing women and rushing through statute amendments to consolidate his power. Villars' candidacy is particularly noteworthy as she, along with Philipott, has the potential to become the first woman to ever hold the FIA presidency.
In addition to the controversial electoral rules, Ben Sulayem has also faced accusations of interfering in race results. A whistleblower complaint alleged that he attempted to overturn a penalty imposed on Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso during the 2023 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. The FIA's ethics committee investigated the matter. Further accusations include issuing "gagging orders" to senior racing officials and attempting to silence critics within the organization. These actions have drawn comparisons to "the excesses of political leaders intent on deconstructing the checks and balances that come with responsible governance".
The FIA has passed controversial amendments to its statutes that critics say will make it harder to challenge Ben Sulayem's re-election bid. These amendments, which were voted through by a significant majority, include bringing forward the deadline for candidates, effectively reducing the time for potential challengers to organize their campaigns. Despite criticism from several national motoring clubs, who warned of "democratic backsliding," the changes were approved.
Ben Sulayem has defended his actions, stating that he is only accountable to the FIA members and that they are "happy" with his performance. He has also dismissed accusations of a "reign of terror" and suggested that the member clubs are supportive of him serving another term. However, his controversial first term and the recent allegations of election rigging have cast a shadow over his re-election bid. As the December election approaches, the controversies surrounding Ben Sulayem's leadership and the fairness of the electoral process continue to fuel debate within the motorsport community.
