Carlos Sainz Sr. withdraws from FIA presidency race

Rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr. has officially ended speculation about a potential run for the presidency of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile, confirming he will not be standing as a candidate in the upcoming election.

The announcement significantly clears the path for incumbent president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who now appears likely to run uncontested as he seeks a second term at the helm of motorsport’s global governing body.

Sainz, 63, is a two-time World Rally Champion and four-time Dakar Rally winner. He had reportedly been weighing a candidacy since late 2023, following discussions with influential figures within motorsport.

His potential run sparked considerable interest amid growing scrutiny over Ben Sulayem’s leadership, marked by a series of resignations and controversial changes to the FIA’s operations.

Sainz: “Present circumstances are not ideal”

In a statement posted on his official X account, Sainz laid out the reasons behind his decision to step back from a possible presidential campaign.

“Hi everyone, this message is to publicly confirm that I have finally decided not to run for the presidency of the FIA in this year’s election,” he began.

“I have worked hard these past months to understand in depth the situation at the FIA and the demands and complexities that come with such an important project. After a thoughtful reflection, I have come to the conclusion that the present circumstances are not ideal to set the grounds for my candidacy.

“Furthermore, I have realised that properly running for President would notably compromise my preparation for the Dakar and I do not wish to weaken my commitment to Ford and my team. These concerns have therefore inclined me to be realistic and desist from my FIA endeavour for now.”

Though he has withdrawn from the race, Sainz emphasized that his passion for motorsport governance remains strong and that he still sees a need for reform within the FIA.

“Despite stepping down from this race, my passion for serving and leading within the Motorsport world hasn’t changed and I still believe the organisation needs important changes, which I remain genuinely hopeful that will be tackled in the upcoming years.

• Read also: Ben Sulayem’s FIA overhaul passes despite calls for delay

“Both racing and mobility have been my life and I will closely follow future developments with great interest. I will always support my sport and try to contribute in all meaningful ways to improve mobility for road users around the world.

“Finally, I want to sincerely thank you all for the messages of support, encouragement and advice I have received during the past weeks. They have reinforced my confidence to continue striving towards my present and future goals and I’m truly grateful. Thank you. Carlos Sainz.”

Spotlight on FIA Leadership

Sainz’s decision comes at a time of mounting pressure on the FIA’s current administration. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who took office in 2021, has faced criticism for a wave of internal resignations and controversial governance decisions – including restricting FIA staff from meetings and introducing a ban on driver swearing, moves that have alienated some figures within the sport.

With Sainz out of the running, no other major challengers to Ben Sulayem have yet emerged, leaving the door open for the current president to remain in position, barring any late developments before the FIA General Assembly election.

Sainz, meanwhile, appears fully focused on his continued commitment to Ford and the 2025 Dakar Rally, reaffirming that while his political ambitions within motorsport may be on hold, his presence and influence are far from fading.

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