Carlos Sainz Sr has made clear that a potential bid to become FIA president would not be clouded by his son’s presence in Formula 1, stating firmly that there would be no conflict of interest.
The two-time World Rally Champion turned motorsport patriarch is considering challenging incumbent Mohammed Ben Sulayem for the presidency at the FIA General Assembly next December Tashkent, Ubekistan.
While no official campaign has yet been launched, Sainz Sr confirmed that he's exploring the idea seriously and consulting with figures from across the motorsport world.
One of the most immediate questions raised by fans and insiders alike was whether Sainz’s leadership would truly be neutral, given that his son, Carlos Sainz Jr., is currently competing in F1 with Williams.
Sainz Sr has been quick to shut down those doubts.
“I have my track record and people know me well enough to understand that this will not be an issue,” he stated in an interview with Motorsport.com.
“Obviously, I will have to step down regarding my role with Carlos and his career, but this is not an issue at all.
“He’s not a child anymore, he has been in F1 for a decade now and we both know that if I go ahead with this project our relationship will change, of course,” he added, emphasizing the maturity and independence of his son.
Sainz Sr added that the nature of the position requires absolute impartiality, something he believes he can deliver.
“The FIA is a very serious entity and there will be no conflict.”
While he refrained from directly criticizing Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s leadership, Sainz Sr acknowledged that “obviously lately there has been some controversy.”
Recent years have seen mounting scrutiny around governance, transparency, and leadership at the FIA, with several high-profile resignations and internal disagreements making headlines.
Still, Sainz Sr insi
©Instagram/Sainz
ted that his motivation to run is grounded in his love for the sport rather than rivalry.
“I want to concentrate on myself. I leave the judgment to others,” he said.
“If I do this, it will not be to fight anyone, it will be out of passion and love for motorsport, because I believe I can help and improve certain things.”
One of the key pillars of his potential presidency would be building bridges and restoring trust across all levels of motorsport.
“I have been on the other side of motorsport and I know how important it is to listen to everybody – drivers, teams, fans, organisers, promoters, manufacturers,” he said.
“I truly think I can make that relationship much smoother and stronger.”
Sainz Sr also expressed a desire to help the FIA regain broad credibility and esteem: “I would like to see the future of the FIA as an entity that is really appreciated and respected by everybody.”
Furthermore, the 63-year-old Spaniard made it clear that he would only launch a formal campaign if there was significant backing for his approach.
“I believe it is probably the right time for me personally and professionally, and that is why I am considering it,” he said.
“I think my track record shows that when I’m committed to something I only know one way to do things, which is professionally, seriously and straightforward.”
With no other challengers yet confirmed, Sainz Sr may well emerge as the leading alternative to Ben Sulayem.
Whether the motorsport community rallies behind him remains to be seen – but he’s made it clear he won’t be bringing family politics into the paddock.
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