FIA Vows Neutrality As Tim Mayer Challenges Ben Sulayem For Presidency

Last Updated:July 05, 2025, 18:34 IST

The FIA affirmed neutrality ahead of the presidential election as Tim Mayer launched his "FIA Forward" campaign to unseat current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Tim Mayer (X)

Motor sport’s governing body, the FIA, issued a firm statement on Saturday affirming its neutrality in the lead-up to its presidential election, following the launch of American candidate Tim Mayer’s campaign to unseat current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

Mayer, a seasoned motorsport official, formally announced his candidacy on Friday at Silverstone ahead of the British Grand Prix. In a direct challenge to Ben Sulayem’s leadership, he accused the incumbent of failing to deliver on his promises and instead moving in the opposite direction.

In response to Mayer’s comments, the FIA released a statement emphasizing the integrity of the election process.

“The FIA Presidential election is a structured and democratic process, to ensure fairness, transparency, and integrity at every stage. It is conducted in accordance with the FIA Statutes," the statement read.

“In line with the FIA’s commitment to impartiality and to preserve equal treatment of candidates, FIA staff members are required to maintain strict neutrality throughout the process. The Federation will continue to operate as normal, delivering on its responsibilities to its Members and across all areas of motor sport and mobility."

The election is scheduled to take place on December 12 during the FIA General Assemblies.

Mayer, 59, is the son of former McLaren team principal Tim Mayer and has built a long career in motorsport governance. He previously served as a Formula One steward but was controversially dismissed last year via a text message reportedly sent by an assistant to Ben Sulayem.

His campaign, titled “FIA Forward," aims to restore transparency, balance of power, and a focus on the federation’s core principles.

Mayer’s campaign has already garnered support from key figures in the Formula One paddock, such as McLaren CEO Zak Brown and Aston Martin’s Andy Cowell.

With five months to go before the election, Mayer’s challenge sets the stage for a potentially contentious leadership battle within the FIA.

(with AFP inputs)

Siddarth Sriram

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...Read More

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...

Read More

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