Ben Sulayem’s FIA future expanded as term limits are scrapped

The FIA has opened a new chapter in its governance structure – one that immediately raises questions about the future balance of power at the top of motorsport’s ruling body.

During this week’s Extraordinary General Assemblies held in Macau, FIA member clubs approved a series of changes to the organization’s statutes and internal regulations, with one amendment standing out above the rest: the removal of term limits across FIA bodies, including the presidency.

The decision, passed by what the FIA described as a supermajority, effectively eliminates the previous restriction that limited the FIA president to a maximum 12 years in office – consecutive or not.

While the governing body insists the change is about creating consistency across its various institutions, critics are likely to view the timing as significant.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who was re-elected unopposed for a second four-year term at the end of 2025, is now no longer restricted by the previous cap should he wish to remain in power beyond the next election cycle.

The FIA defended the move as a structural adjustment rather than a power grab.

“The FIA statutes have been updated to establish a consistent approach to term limits across all FIA bodies, in line with the world councils and the senate,” an FIA spokesperson said.

“The proposed amendments were approved by a supermajority at the Extraordinary General Assemblies. FIA bodies retain full authority to democratically elect officeholders they deem appropriate.”

The wording emphasizes that elections will still determine leadership positions, but the removal of the limit changes the political landscape surrounding the presidency.

New barriers for future challengers

Alongside the removal of term limits, the FIA has also tightened the requirements for anyone hoping to challenge for the presidency.

The organization has strengthened eligibility rules, requiring candidates to demonstrate greater experience and involvement within FIA structures before they can stand for election.

“The eligibility criteria for the president of the FIA have been strengthened and are more in line with the existing eligibility criteria for the other candidates on the Presidential List,” the FIA statement read.

“The name of the nominations committee has been changed to 'eligibility assessment committee', to ensure better alignment between the body’s name and its responsibilities.”

The changes mean potential challengers will face a higher threshold before even reaching the ballot, adding another layer of scrutiny to future elections.

Supporters of the reforms argue that experienced leadership should not be artificially restricted and that FIA members should retain the democratic right to choose their preferred representatives.

However, opponents may question whether removing limits while simultaneously making candidacy requirements more demanding could make it harder for new voices to emerge.

Ben Sulayem’s long-term future comes into focus

At 64 years old, Ben Sulayem remains eligible to seek another term in 2029 under the revised regulations. Without the former 12-year restriction, the only immediate obstacle would be the FIA’s age limit, which currently prevents candidates from standing beyond the age of 70.

That means the Emirati could potentially continue leading the organization well beyond what was previously possible – unless future reforms alter the remaining restrictions.

• Read also: FIA approves major changes to future Formula 1 engine rules

The vote therefore represents more than a technical adjustment to FIA statutes. It reshapes the possible future of an organization that governs some of the world’s biggest motorsport championships, including Formula 1.

Ben Sulayem’s presidency has already been marked by major changes, internal controversies and debates over governance. Now, with the removal of term limits, the next battle may not be about whether he can continue – but how long he chooses to stay.

The FIA insists the system remains democratic. Yet the decision has inevitably placed a spotlight on one question: when does continuity become consolidation of power?

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