FIA clubs urge legal action over Ben Sulayem allegations

FIA clubs and sports federations across the Americas are urging legal action against those who they believe defamed the governing body and its president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

Following Ben Sulayem's exoneration from accusations of meddling in two Formula 1 races last year, numerous member clubs have issued a robust letter of support for him in an apparent effort to stave off any internal challenges to the Emirati’s authority.

Signed by over 30 representatives, the letter underscores unwavering solidarity with Ben Sulayem.

Expressing discontent over recent allegations brought forward by a whistle blower, particularly regarding Ben Sulayem's involvement in steward decisions during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and the Las Vegas Grand Prix's safety certification, the clubs advocate for legal recourse against those who baselessly maligned the FIA and its leadership.

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Published on the FIA's official website, the letter reflects the clubs' belief that certain reports surrounding Ben Sulayem were maliciously intended to damage the FIA's reputation.

“The resolution of the Ethics Committee ratifies that the President of the FIA, Mr. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, acted honourably, transparently and independently,” read the clubs’ statement.

“That the selection of the FIA President is enshrined in the FIA Statutes and is the sole purview of its voting members and is not impacted by those from outside the organization who attempt, for their own self-interest, to intervene.

“Accusations of impropriety and unethical practices propagated by some members of the print and digital media were intended for the sole purpose of causing harm to the FIA and its leadership, particularly the President.

“We will recommend that the FIA initiate legal action against those who, without cause, slander the FIA and its leadership.

“We endorse and ratify our vote of confidence in support of Mr. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, for his stewardship of the FIA and his progress to fulfilling his commitment to transform the FIA in an ethical and transparent manner in order to better serve its members.”

The letter is signed by 34 member clubs and sports federations of the Americas, and includes the signature of Fabiana Ecclestone, the vice president of South America for Sports and the wife of former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone.

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