The Role and Responsibilities of the FIA President

Mohammed Ben Sulayem has recently secured a second term as the president of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), extending his leadership for an additional four years. This marks a significant moment in the world of motorsport, as Ben Sulayem steps into his role amidst a backdrop of both support and controversy. Let’s delve deeper into the responsibilities of the FIA president, the election process, and the historical context of this important position in motorsport governance.

Understanding the Role of the FIA President

The president of the FIA serves as the primary representative of the governing body for motorsport worldwide. This individual plays a crucial role in leading the organization and implementing any modifications made to the various championships it oversees. The FIA is responsible for a wide range of motorsport activities, and the president’s influence extends across these domains.

To be elected as FIA president, candidates must participate in a voting process held every four years, where FIA Member Clubs from around the globe cast their votes. These clubs are located in six continents and include notable organizations like the Royal Automobile Club in London and the Australian Automobile Association in Canberra. Each club evaluates the candidates based on their manifestos and chooses whom they believe will best serve the interests of motorsport.

An important aspect of the FIA presidency is the term limit. A president can serve a maximum of three terms, totaling up to 12 years in the position. This means that Ben Sulayem, who first took office in 2021, has the opportunity to seek reelection in 2029 if he chooses.

The President’s Responsibilities

Upon election, the FIA president assumes significant responsibilities that include managing the organization and having substantial input on changes affecting various motorsport events, such as Formula 1. For instance, a notable event during Ben Sulayem’s leadership occurred in November 2024 when Niels Wittich was dismissed from his role as race director. This decision came after reported conflicts between Wittich and Ben Sulayem and showcased the president’s authority in operational matters.

The FIA president also oversees several initiatives aimed at promoting the growth and sustainability of motorsport. These initiatives include ambitious goals, such as achieving Net Zero emissions by 2030, introducing sustainable fuels in Formula 1 by 2026, and collaborating with institutions like Cranfield University to provide scholarships in motorsport engineering. These efforts reflect a commitment to fostering a more environmentally friendly future for racing and supporting the next generation of motorsport professionals.

Additionally, the president plays a vital role in public relations during high-profile events. For instance, during a Formula 1 weekend, Ben Sulayem can often be found in the paddock, interacting with teams, drivers, and officials. He typically takes part in post-race activities, such as presenting medals to the winning drivers and engaging with fans and stakeholders on the grid before races.

Another significant event in the president’s calendar is the FIA Prize Giving ceremony. This annual event celebrates the achievements of champions across various FIA-sanctioned series. During this ceremony, the president delivers speeches, presents trophies, and takes photographs with the winners, highlighting the accomplishments within the motorsport community.

Relationship Between the FIA and Formula 1

It is essential to note that the FIA president is not an employee of Formula 1. Instead, the FIA serves as the governing body that sanctions the Formula 1 championship. This independence means that the FIA has no direct influence from Formula 1 regarding the selection or conduct of its president. This separation is crucial in maintaining the integrity and authority of the FIA as the governing body of motorsport.

The FIA President’s Scope of Influence

The FIA president’s responsibilities extend beyond Formula 1, encompassing a wide array of motorsport series regulated by the organization. Currently, the FIA oversees more than 50 different series, seven of which are classified as world championships. These include prestigious events such as Formula E, the World Rally Championship, and the World Endurance Championship. The president’s involvement can significantly impact decisions made within these various series, affecting everything from regulations to race organization.

Financial Aspects of the FIA Presidency

Interestingly, the FIA president does not receive a salary. This is primarily because the FIA operates as a non-profit organization, generating revenue through entry fees and super license fees from the teams competing in its sanctioned championships. This financial structure emphasizes the FIA’s commitment to its mission of promoting and regulating motorsport rather than generating profit for individual leadership positions.

Controversies Surrounding the FIA Elections

The recent FIA presidential election was marked by controversy. Ben Sulayem initially won his first election in 2021, receiving 61.62% of the votes against his opponent, Graham Stoker, who garnered 36.62%. However, in the latest election, Ben Sulayem ran unopposed, a situation that arose due to several procedural complexities. Initially, there were several potential candidates, including double world rally champion Carlos Sainz Sr., former steward Tim Mayer, Swiss racer Laura Villars, and Belgian journalist Virginie Philippot. However, none of them were able to officially run for the position.

To qualify as a candidate, an individual must assemble a team of seven vice-presidents representing the FIA’s six global regions, with two members required to be from Europe. The South American region faced difficulties, as the only viable candidate was Fabiana Ecclestone, who is married to former F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone and had already pledged her support to Ben Sulayem.

The lack of opposition in the election raised eyebrows, particularly after Robert Reid, the FIA’s deputy president for sport, resigned, citing a "breakdown of governance standards" and the making of "critical decisions without due process." This controversy surrounding the election process reflects ongoing tensions within the FIA and raises questions about the governance of the organization.

A Historical Perspective on FIA Presidents

The history of the FIA presidency is rich and varied, with several notable figures having held the position. Here’s a brief overview of some past presidents and their tenures:

• Mohammed Ben Sulayem (2021 – present): The current president, whose leadership has been marked by a focus on sustainability and governance reform.
• Jean Todt (2009 – 2021): Known for his contributions to the sport during his tenure and his advocacy for road safety initiatives.
• Max Mosley (1993 – 2009): His presidency was characterized by significant changes in safety regulations and governance structures in motorsport.
• Jean-Marie Balestre (1985 – 1993): Focused on expanding the FIA’s influence and enhancing the visibility of motorsport on a global scale.
• Paul Alfons Furst Von Metternich-Winneburg (1975 – 1985): Played a crucial role in the establishment of new racing categories and enhancing the organization’s financial stability.

These leaders have shaped the direction of the FIA and the broader motorsport landscape, each leaving a unique legacy.

Conclusion

The role of the FIA president is multifaceted, encompassing leadership, governance, and public representation for motorsport worldwide. As Mohammed Ben Sulayem embarks on another term, the challenges and opportunities ahead will undoubtedly shape the future of the FIA and its impact on global motorsport. The intersection of governance, sustainability, and the evolving landscape of racing presents both challenges and possibilities for the organization moving forward.