Carlos Sainz Sr., father of Williams driver Carlos Sainz Jr, is reportedly considering a run for the presidency of the FIA. The former rally champion and Dakar winner has been approached by several key figures in motorsport to stand for election. As it stands, Sainz Sr. is the only challenger to the current FIA president, the controversial Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who has already expressed his intention to seek a second term.
“Sources close to Carlos Sainz Sr. report that he has been approached by several key figures in the motorsport world to challenge Mohammed Ben Sulayem,” wrote the British Autosport. The 63-year-old Spaniard is said to be seriously considering a campaign based on a ‘positive and constructive program’, according to insiders. His candidacy is seen primarily as an alternative to the controversial Ben Sulayem, who has been under fire for some time due to his style of governance.
Since his appointment in 2021, the Emirati has not exactly endeared himself to the Formula 1 community. His approach – from changes in the statutes that limit accountability to the dismissal of FIA figures and the introduction of new conduct rules for drivers – has significantly damaged his image. In recent months, several influential FIA members have resigned, including Vice President Robert Reid. The Englishman spoke of a ‘fundamental breach in governance norms’.
Dissatisfaction Among Drivers
The dissatisfaction is not limited to the board. Drivers have also openly expressed their opposition to Ben Sulayem’s policies. His ban on swearing, for instance, led to protests from rally drivers who subsequently refused to give interviews. The union for Formula 1 drivers wrote an open letter calling for more respect from the FIA. It is possible that Carlos Sainz Sr., who presumably holds less conservative views, could win the drivers over.
Of course, the question is whether Sainz Sr. can even run for election. There were previously rumors that F1 Academy head Susie Wolff wanted to run for the FIA presidency, but these speculations were debunked. Moreover, there was talk of potential conflict of interest, as the Scot is married to Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff. Given that Carlos Sainz Sr. is the father of an active Formula 1 driver, his candidacy could also be questioned. The elections will take place on December 12 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, during the FIA General Assembly.
