Carlos Sainz Sr., father of Williams driver Carlos Sainz, has openly expressed his intention to challenge Mohammad Ben Sulayem for the FIA President position in the upcoming elections. Seen as a surprising contender, the Spanish motorsport legend aims to bring change to the governing body of international motorsport, which has faced criticism under the current leadership. His candidacy adds an unexpected yet compelling layer to the race for one of racing’s most influential roles.
Mohammad Ben Sulayem, since assuming the FIA presidency, has implemented several controversial policies, including a clampdown on driver jewelry in 2022 and a ban on driver swearing more recently. These actions have sparked debate within the motorsport community and beyond, raising questions about leadership decisions and their impact on the sport’s culture. Against this backdrop, Carlos Sainz Sr.’s candidacy surfaces as an alternative vision for the FIA’s future direction.
As a two-time world rally champion and one of Spain’s foremost racing icons alongside Fernando Alonso, Carlos Sainz Sr. brings a rich heritage and decades of firsthand experience within motorsport. Speaking with Autosport, he revealed that his interest in the FIA role had been growing over many years of racing and that he feels prepared to handle the responsibilities effectively. Although he chose not to directly criticize Ben Sulayem’s management style, Carlos Sainz Sr. remains determined to offer a fresh perspective and sound leadership.
Addressing concerns about a potential conflict of interest with his son competing at the highest level in Formula 1, Carlos Sainz Sr. emphasized his intention to maintain a professional distance. Having navigated the complexities of motorsport for over 40 years, he believes he can separate his family ties from his duties if elected, ensuring fairness and transparency in the FIA’s governance.
The FIA presidency role has been surrounded by scrutiny due to recent decisions, and Carlos Sainz Sr.’s entry into the race presents an intriguing challenge to the status quo. The outcome of this election could significantly influence the future policies and direction of international motorsport, making this development closely watched by fans and industry figures alike.
