In a fiery clash of egos, the battle for the FIA presidency has erupted into a full-blown war, with current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem vehemently refuting allegations of a “reign of terror” under his leadership. The tension escalated as former F1 steward Tim Mayer threw his hat in the ring for the upcoming December 2025 election, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown.
Mayer, a prominent figure in motorsport administration, didn’t hold back as he accused Ben Sulayem of failing to enact promised reforms and fostering a toxic environment within the FIA. Describing the organization as a “reign of terror,” Mayer painted a grim picture of internal strife and a lack of accountability at the highest levels.
Ben Sulayem, who took the reins in December 2021, has weathered his fair share of controversies, including governance issues, internal resignations, and clashes over Formula 1 regulations. Unfazed by the backlash, the 63-year-old president dismissed the accusations, suggesting his critics were out of touch with the reality at the FIA.
As the race for the FIA presidency heats up, the stakes have never been higher, with the organization overseeing major events like Formula 1, World Endurance Championship, and Formula E. What initially seemed like an uncontested reelection bid for Ben Sulayem took a dramatic turn with Mayer’s unexpected entry, turning the upcoming election into a two-man showdown.
Despite facing scrutiny and challenges, Ben Sulayem welcomed the competition, likening it to a return to the competitive arena. He expressed confidence in his administration’s integrity and emphasized the importance of transparency and adherence to guidelines under his leadership.
With the stage set for a contentious leadership battle, both candidates are gearing up to shape the future of global motorsport. With issues of transparency, internal culture, and the expansion of F1 on the line, the coming months promise a closer examination of the inner workings of the FIA.
