Carlos Sainz Sr. is reportedly considering a bid for the presidency of the FIA, the governing body of Formula 1, in the upcoming election set for December 2025. Influential figures within motorsport have approached the Spanish racing icon to join the race against the current president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, whose tenure since 2022 has been met with controversy and criticism, according to a Motorsport Network report.
The FIA president’s leadership has faced scrutiny over several issues, including the implementation of new guidelines restricting drivers from using strong language during post-race events—a move that has sparked backlash from prominent racers such as Max Verstappen, who chose silence during media sessions in protest. Previously, speculation surrounded Susie Wolff as a potential challenger, but now the focus has shifted to Carlos Sainz Sr. as a serious contender.
The FIA’s enforcement of financial regulations continues to generate tension. For the 2025 season, teams are limited to spending no more than $140.4 million on CFD testing and aerodynamic development. This strict cost cap, introduced in 2021, is designed to reduce disparities between teams, ensuring fair competition. Alongside an independent auditor, the FIA oversees these financial limits rigorously, but the process places heavy demands on the organization.
Ben Sulayem acknowledged these challenges in an interview with the Associated Press in Miami, revealing that the cost cap enforcement strains FIA resources due to the extensive scrutiny required. Despite these difficulties, the FIA remains committed to maintaining financial oversight to preserve the sport’s integrity.
The possibility of Carlos Sainz Sr. entering the presidential race introduces uncertainty and urgency within the FIA structure. His candidacy could signal a major shakeup for Formula 1 governance, appealing to those dissatisfied with the current leadership and seeking change. As the December 2025 vote approaches, the motorsport community watches closely, aware that the outcome may significantly influence the sport’s direction and regulatory environment in the coming years.
