Carlos Sainz Sr., the renowned two-time World Rally Champion, has recently shared his thoughts on potentially running for the presidency of the FIA in the upcoming elections. At 63 years old, Sainz, who continues to compete in the Dakar Rally and made history in 2024 as its oldest winner with Audi, is contemplating a significant career shift. He is also the father of Carlos Sainz Jr., who races for Williams in Formula 1.
In an interview with Motorsport.com, Sainz expressed that the idea of running for FIA president has been on his mind for some time, albeit not with intense focus until now. He believes that this moment might be the right one to take such a significant step in his career. “I’ve been driving for over 40 years, and this sport has given me everything. Now I think it could be the right time for me to take the step,” he stated. He is confident in his ability to lead and build an excellent team that can give back to the sport that has provided him with so much.
Sainz brings a wealth of experience to the table, having been part of the motorsport world for decades. He firmly believes that his background and knowledge could contribute positively to the development and strengthening of both the sport and the automotive industry. His extensive experience has equipped him with insights that he feels could introduce innovative ideas to the FIA, enhancing the organization’s impact on motorsport.
Currently, Sainz is evaluating the level of support he might receive from the motorsport community before officially announcing his candidacy. He has been clear that his potential involvement in the FIA would not create any conflicts of interest, particularly concerning his son’s career in Formula 1. “I have my track record, and people know me well enough to understand that this will not be an issue,” he reassured. He acknowledged the need to step back from his role in guiding Carlos Jr.’s racing career should he proceed with his presidential ambition, but he does not view this as a hindrance.
Sainz noted that his son is now an experienced driver with a decade of F1 racing under his belt, and both of them understand that pursuing this project would inevitably change their relationship. He emphasized that the FIA is a serious organization, and he would ensure that there is no overlap or conflict between his potential presidency and his personal ties to the sport.
As of now, Carlos Sainz Sr. is the first individual to openly express interest in running for the FIA presidency. Meanwhile, the current president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, has yet to formally announce his intention to seek a second term. Although Ben Sulayem is generally expected to run again, his tenure has been marked by several challenges, including high-profile resignations from the governing body since he took office at the end of 2021. Additionally, he has faced criticism regarding various practices and decisions made during his leadership, which may influence the dynamics of the upcoming election.
The prospect of new leadership in the FIA could bring about significant changes, and Sainz’s entry into the race could signal a desire for fresh perspectives within the organization. Many in the motorsport community are keenly observing how these developments unfold, as they could impact the future of racing regulations, safety standards, and the overall direction of motorsport governance.
Sainz’s reputation as a skilled driver and his extensive experience in various racing disciplines position him as a potentially strong candidate for the presidency. His understanding of both the competitive and technical aspects of motorsport could help him navigate the complexities of the FIA’s responsibilities. This includes overseeing regulations, promoting safety, and fostering the growth of motorsport across different regions and categories.
The FIA plays a crucial role in the global motorsport landscape, and its president is tasked with making vital decisions that affect all levels of racing, from grassroots competitions to the pinnacle of motorsport, Formula 1. With the sport evolving rapidly, from technological advancements to regulatory challenges, leadership that is both experienced and visionary is essential.
Sainz’s candidacy could resonate with various stakeholders in the motorsport world, including drivers, teams, and fans. His long-standing involvement in rallying, as well as his connection to Formula 1 through his son, allows him to draw from a diverse range of experiences that could benefit the FIA. His commitment to giving back to the sport suggests a genuine desire to enhance the environment for current and future competitors, which could garner support from those who share his passion for racing.
As the election approaches, the motorsport community will be eager to see how Sainz’s interest develops and whether he will officially declare his candidacy. If he does decide to run, it will be intriguing to observe how he crafts his platform and what policies he might advocate for. His insights into the sport, coupled with his leadership aspirations, could potentially lead to transformative changes within the FIA.
In summary, Carlos Sainz Sr.’s contemplation of a presidential bid for the FIA injects a fresh narrative into the upcoming elections. His extensive experience in motorsport and his familial ties to Formula 1 provide a unique perspective that could resonate with a wide array of constituents in the racing community. With the current president’s future uncertain amid challenges and controversies, Sainz’s potential candidacy represents an opportunity for new leadership and direction in the FIA, which could ultimately benefit the sport as a whole. The motorsport world awaits further developments as Sainz assesses his options and gauging community support for this ambitious endeavor.
