Former FIA steward Tim Mayer announced his candidacy for the FIA presidency on Friday. After being relieved of his duties last year, the American concluded that the auto racing federation, under the leadership of current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, has primarily created an illusion of progress. Mayer speaks of ‘failed leadership’ and will campaign in the coming months at affiliated auto racing clubs for the elections in December.
Like a seasoned American politician, Tim Mayer addressed the press in Great Britain on Friday. In the run-up to the GP of Silverstone, he officially announced his candidacy for the FIA presidency. “A Herculean task,” he called it, but also an important step towards a healthier auto racing federation. “The choices made in recent months have primarily benefited those in power,” he explained. “It is our task to reach all 245 affiliated clubs and explain why we are the right alternative.”
Illusions
Mayer immediately launched an attack on his opponent, Mohammed Ben Sulayem. “An illusion of progress is being created, an illusion of good leadership, while in the meantime, Ben Sulayem’s entire senior team has left,” he stated. “There is talk of inclusivity, but women and people with diverse backgrounds are being shunned. And what about transparency? Decision-making has only become more centralized, and opponents are being punished. Finally – and perhaps most worryingly – the illusion of integrity is being maintained. During several general meetings, the statutes have been amended under the guise of progress, when in reality it was about the greatest centralization of power in the history of the FIA.”
Former FIA Steward
When asked about his dismissal as an FIA steward, Mayer responded, “Of course, it was disappointing. I’ve had the privilege of working in many branches of motorsport within the FIA, but that’s not the point. I took the time to reflect on our organization. What I’ve learned over the years is that a leader must support their people. What I see now is failed leadership. I don’t want to seek revenge, but to look at what we as an organization can do better.”
After leaving the FIA, Mayer had previously openly criticized Chairman Ben Sulayem. In an interview with the BBC, he suggested that the Emirati ‘pushes his own opinion’ and wanted to actively interfere with guidelines and penalties in Formula 1. As an example, he mentioned Ben Sulayem’s personal campaign against drivers who used swear words in the media. “Technically, swearing is indeed not allowed,” Mayer said at the time. “But I wonder if we should punish drivers for a few strong words.”
