BREAKING: Now Official: MOHAMMED BEN SULAYEM TO Step DOWN As FIA President…read more

MOHAMMED BEN SULAYEM TO STEP DOWN AS FIA PRESIDENT

 

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem is reportedly set to step down from his role, marking a significant shift in the leadership of motorsport’s governing body. The decision comes after a tenure that has been marked by controversy, reform efforts, and growing tensions within Formula 1.

 

A Controversial Tenure

 

Ben Sulayem, who took over as FIA President in December 2021, has had a turbulent time at the helm. His leadership has seen several clashes with Formula 1’s commercial rights holders, the teams, and even drivers. From regulatory disputes to concerns over transparency, his tenure has not been without criticism.

 

One of the major points of contention during his presidency was the FIA’s handling of Formula 1’s sporting and technical regulations. Under his leadership, there were multiple investigations into rule enforcement, with teams often voicing concerns about inconsistencies. The budget cap controversy, ongoing debates about track limits, and questionable stewarding decisions have all been topics of heated discussion under his watch.

 

Clashes with Formula 1 Stakeholders

 

The FIA’s relationship with Formula 1’s commercial owners, Liberty Media, also appeared to deteriorate under Ben Sulayem. There were frequent disputes over the expansion of the calendar, race weekend formats, and, more significantly, the ongoing debate about new teams joining the grid. His comments regarding Andretti Global’s potential entry into Formula 1 stirred tension, with F1’s management opposing the move despite the FIA’s green light.

 

Furthermore, Ben Sulayem’s outspoken nature often put him at odds with F1 teams and drivers. His remarks on certain rule changes and governance decisions, sometimes made on social media, were not always well received. In early 2023, he also faced backlash over alleged interference in a penalty decision, which led to internal reviews within the FIA.

 

Possible Successors and FIA’s Next Steps

 

With Ben Sulayem stepping down, the FIA will now look toward electing a new president. Some of the potential candidates include FIA Vice President Robert Reid and current Deputy President for Sport, Fabiana Ecclestone, who is the wife of former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone. The next FIA president will need to repair relationships with F1 stakeholders while ensuring that governance remains strong.

 

One of the biggest challenges facing the new FIA leadership will be addressing concerns over the 2026 regulations, which include major power unit changes and significant chassis design overhauls. The introduction of new sustainable fuels and ensuring parity among teams will be key points on the agenda.

 

The Future of FIA and Formula 1

 

Ben Sulayem’s departure could signal a shift towards a more collaborative approach between F1 and the FIA. His leadership style often resulted in power struggles, but the sport’s rapid growth under Liberty Media demands a more cohesive working relationship between regulatory bodies and commercial rights holders.

 

Teams and drivers have already called for a more consistent application of regulations, something that will be a priority for the next president. Additionally, FIA’s handling of safety issues—such as track conditions, race cancellations, and driver penalties—will also need to be addressed in the wake of criticism in recent seasons.

 

With Formula 1’s popularity soaring worldwide, the FIA’s next move will be crucial in shaping the sport’s governance for the years ahead.

 

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Ben Sulayem’s departure will undoubtedly lead to major discussions within the motorsport world. Whether this change will bring stability or further shake-ups remains to be seen.

 

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