FIA’s Reid resigns amid ‘breakdown of governance standards’

FIA deputy president for sport Robert Reid has resigned from his position at the governing body with immediate effect, citing a significant "breakdown of governance standards”.

Reid, who has served as the second in command since his election in 2021, informed FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem of his decision on Thursday morning, marking another significant event in the ongoing unrest within the organization.

Reid’s resignation comes amid growing tensions under Ben Sulayem’s leadership, with the former World Rally Championship co-driver pointing to a series of controversial decisions and procedural lapses as the catalyst for his departure.

In a strongly worded statement, Reid expressed deep concerns over the direction of the FIA, accusing the leadership of abandoning the principles of transparency and accountability that he had pledged to uphold when he took on the role.

“When I took on this role, it was to serve the FIA’s members; not to serve power,” Reid said.

“Over time, I have witnessed a steady erosion of the principles we promised to uphold. Decisions are being made behind closed doors, bypassing the very structures and people the FIA exists to represent.

“My resignation is not about personalities; it is about principles. Motorsport deserves leadership that is accountable, transparent, and member-driven.

“I can no longer, in good faith, remain part of a system that does not reflect those values.”

Mounting Criticism and Governance Disputes

Reid’s exit follows a turbulent period for the FIA, characterized by what he described as "critical decisions being made without due process or proper consultation, both internally and with FIA members and the FIA governance bodies; Senate and World Motor Sport Council."

His statement highlighted specific instances where due process was allegedly bypassed, a concern that has been echoed by other prominent figures within the motorsport community.

Adding to the controversy, Reid and Motorsport UK chairman David Richards were recently barred from attending the latest FIA World Motor Sport Council meeting after refusing to sign a non-disclosure agreement imposed by Ben Sulayem.

Richards has been equally vocal in his criticism, accusing the FIA president of overseeing "a shift of the moral compass" within the organization.

Reid’s departure is seen as a direct challenge to Ben Sulayem’s leadership, which has faced scrutiny since he introduced sweeping changes to the FIA’s operational structure.

• Read also: Motorsport UK threatens legal action against FIA and Ben Sulayem

The Briton has called for a broader reckoning, urging FIA member clubs and stakeholders to take action.

“I call on FIA member clubs and stakeholders to demand greater accountability from the federation’s leadership,” Reid stated, emphasizing the need for reform to restore trust in the governing body.

The resignation leaves the FIA at a crossroads, with growing questions about its ability to maintain unity and credibility under Ben Sulayem’s stewardship.

As the motorsport world watches closely, Reid’s exit may signal further upheaval within the organization tasked with overseeing global racing standards.

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