Rally World Shakeup: Sebastien Ogier Endorses Carlos Sainz Sr for FIA Presidency Race
In a shocking turn of events, rally champion Sebastien Ogier has thrown his weight behind the potential FIA presidency bid of Carlos Sainz Sr. The motorsport community was taken aback when news surfaced that the two-time WRC champion, Sainz Sr, is contemplating challenging Mohammed Ben Sulayem in the upcoming FIA presidential election. Sainz Sr, who is currently assessing his support from the FIA’s member automotive clubs, is no stranger to the rally world, having previously driven for M-Sport in the WRC.
The endorsement from Ogier comes amidst a flurry of developments in the rally scene, with M-Sport-Ford’s Malcolm Wilson being nominated for the deputy president for sport role. This position was recently vacated by 2001 WRC co-driver champion Robert Reid, adding further intrigue to the upcoming FIA elections.
Ogier, speaking at Rally Portugal, expressed his admiration for Sainz Sr, stating, “I have always had massive respect for Carlos and I like him a lot as a person as well.” The rally community is abuzz with speculation about Sainz Sr’s potential candidacy and the support he has garnered from notable figures like Ogier.
Hyundai boss, Cyril Abiteboul, while refraining from explicitly endorsing Sainz Sr, voiced his approval for a competitive FIA presidency race with multiple candidates. “Having multiple candidates is a good thing. In any election, voters should be given options and a choice,” Abiteboul remarked, hinting at the excitement building within the motorsport fraternity.
Additionally, the rally world rejoiced at the news of the FIA revising penalties in its International Sporting Code, particularly the reduction in fines for drivers caught swearing. This development follows a collective effort by WRC drivers, through the World Rally Drivers Alliance (WoRDA), to address concerns regarding penalties, as seen in the case of Hyundai’s Adrien Fourmaux.
The rally landscape is evolving rapidly, with Ogier, Abiteboul, and other key figures shaping the future of the sport. As the FIA presidency race heats up, all eyes are on Sainz Sr and the potential transformation he could bring to the world of motorsport governance.
