Tim Mayer to Challenge Mohammed Ben Sulayem in FIA Election

• Tim Mayer announces his candidacy against Mohammed Ben Sulayem in the FIA election.
• The FIA election is set for December 12 at the general assembly in Uzbekistan.
• Mayer’s campaign, ‘FIA Forward,’ seeks renewed integrity and innovation.
• Mayer criticizes current governance under Ben Sulayem for lack of transparency.
• Carlos Sainz Sr. decided not to run for FIA presidency.

Mayer Announces Candidacy for FIA Presidency

In a significant development for world motorsport, former F1 steward Tim Mayer is gearing up to challenge the current president of the FIA, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, during the upcoming electoral proceedings scheduled for December. This announcement comes just days before the British Grand Prix, where Mayer publicly declared his candidacy at a press event near Silverstone. In his statement, he emphasized the essence of his campaign, branding it “FIA Forward” and highlighting a desire for renewed integrity and innovation within the FIA’s governance framework.

Controversy Fuels Mayer’s Motivation

Mayer, whose time as an F1 steward spanned 15 years, found himself unexpectedly ousted from his role last November amidst a heated controversy surrounding the United States Grand Prix. His dismissal reportedly came via a text message, which left many in the motorsport community questioning the decision’s transparency. Mayer pointed out that this incident sparked a deeper contemplation about the FIA’s values and principles. “We have to ask ourselves what we want the organization to become,” Mayer revealed, stressing the need for a professional approach that champions the involvement of volunteers and Member Clubs while promoting growth in underrepresented regions.

Election Dynamics and Key Competitors

The FIA election, set for December 12 at its general assembly in Uzbekistan, saw interest from notable figures within the motorsport world. Two-time World Rally Champion Carlos Sainz Sr. decided against a presidential bid, stating the conditions weren’t right to support his candidacy. Mayer remained critical of the current president’s agenda, contrasting the initial promise of transparency and empowerment from Ben Sulayem’s last campaign with what has become a perceived consolidation of power within his office. “Reduction in transparency is a concerning trend that needs to be addressed,” he remarked.

Tim Mayer’s entry into the FIA presidential race marks a pivotal moment for world motorsport. As he seeks to challenge Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the upcoming election will be closely watched, especially given Mayer’s emphasis on transparency, integrity, and the need for innovation. With the election date approaching, the stakes are high and the motorsport community awaits to see how this challenge will reshape the future of the FIA.