An imminent threat looms over the FIA as Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s controversial proposed changes spark fear of a “dark period” within the organization. A founding member of the FIA has issued a stark warning, predicting governance failure and democratic regression if Sulayem’s statute alterations are approved at the upcoming General Assembly meeting in Macau.
The proposed changes, including restrictions on candidates with integrity concerns and expanded powers for the president, have sparked widespread concern among FIA members. The Austrian OAMTC has raised alarms about the potential damage to the organization’s integrity, citing a history of governance missteps and failures within the FIA leadership.
In a strongly-worded letter to FIA World Council members, the OAMTC emphasized the need to reject the reforms, urging for a more thorough evaluation after the next election. The letter highlighted past controversies and expressed skepticism about Sulayem’s assurances that the revisions would benefit the FIA.
As tensions rise ahead of the crucial vote, the OAMTC cautioned that approving the changes could plunge the FIA into a “dark period of democratic backsliding.” The letter underscored the risks of alienating members, stakeholders, and potential partners, painting a grim picture of the consequences of pushing through the contentious reforms.
Despite Ben Sulayem’s claims that the proposed statutes would strengthen the organization, dissenting voices within the FIA continue to voice concerns about the potential ramifications of the changes. With the future of the FIA hanging in the balance, the looming decision at the General Assembly meeting threatens to reshape the landscape of international motorsport governance.
