Ben Sulayem Faces Major Backlash as FIA Deputy President Resigns
In a shocking turn of events, the FIA deputy president, Robert Reid, has resigned, dealing a severe blow to President Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s leadership. Reid’s abrupt departure comes amidst escalating criticism of Ben Sulayem’s governance and decision-making processes.
Reid cited a “breakdown of governance standards” and decisions made without due process as reasons for his immediate resignation. This move follows similar concerns raised by Motorsport UK chairman David Richards, who lambasted the increasing opacity in the FIA’s governance and the concentration of power in the hands of the president.
The exodus of key figures under Ben Sulayem’s leadership is not a new phenomenon. Several high-profile resignations, including that of Chief Executive Natalie Robyn and other prominent directors, have raised questions about the president’s management style.
Critics have accused Ben Sulayem of adopting an authoritarian approach, highlighted by the removal – or what critics call ‘purging’ – of numerous officials and stewards at his behest. Additionally, his crackdown on issues like driver behavior and attire, along with alleged delays in finalizing the new Concorde Agreement, have fueled discontent within the FIA.
The controversy surrounding Ben Sulayem peaked at the FIA’s General Assembly in Rwanda, where changes to the statutes limited the accountability of FIA leadership. This move effectively granted Ben Sulayem and FIA Senate President Carmelo Sanz De Barros the authority to handle ethics complaints against themselves, sparking further outrage.
Amidst allegations of undue influence in sporting decisions and the dismissal of the compliance officer leading investigations, Ben Sulayem’s leadership faces intense scrutiny. Reid’s resignation, coupled with public denouncements from key figures like Richards, signals a potential power struggle within the organization.
As Ben Sulayem gears up for re-election later this year, the opposition to his continued presidency appears to be gaining momentum. However, with no clear challenger in sight and the backing of the FIA General Assembly, unseating him may prove to be a formidable task.
The stage is set for a showdown at the upcoming election, with Ben Sulayem’s critics sharpening their knives and strategizing their next move. Whether this dissent will culminate in a significant shift in leadership or serve as a mere warning shot remains to be seen. The FIA is bracing for a period of uncertainty and upheaval as the battle for control intensifies.