MOTORSPORT – MOHAMMED Ben Sulayem has received backing of international clubs as he seeks a second term as president of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body of motor sports.
Nearly 36 FIA Region III and IV clubs have urged Ben Sulayem to continue his work to improve the FIA. In a letter, named Hermanos (brothers), clubs from South and Central America and Canada thanked Ben Sulayem for his “service, commitment, vision, and, above all, the delivery of your manifesto promised to us.”
The letter further noted: “We are all acutely aware of the catastrophic financial situation you inherited. Without the decisive and bold actions you took from day one, the very future of the FIA would have been at risk.
“The turnaround achieved in less than four years is nothing short of extraordinary, especially when coupled with the implementation of professional management systems that you deployed in parallel.
The letter is signed by Ricardo Morales Rubio, FIA Region IV (South America and Central America) president, and Fabiana Ecclestone, FIA vice president for sport – South America.
The letter added: “As club presidents, we have personally felt and experienced the daily focus you and your leadership team have placed on supporting and engaging with us - the members - treating each of us with equal respect. This inclusive approach is deeply appreciated.”
A statement claimed that the FIA recently made a turnaround in its financial position under Ben Sulayem. At the end of the financial year 2024, the FIA reported it had achieved a robust operating result of € 4.7 million ($5.3m) and an operating income of €182.0m. In 2021, the federation incurred a loss of €24.0m before Ben Sulayem was elected.
The letter concluded with the message saying, “We understand that four years is a short time to complete the ambitious reforms you have initiated. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to seek re-election at the upcoming Annual General Assembly.”
Meanwhile, in a statement issued from Dubai, Ben Sualyem thanked 36 clubs for supporting his candidacy.
“I am honoured by the support I’ve received from across 36 member clubs in Regions III and IV. It is a privilege to be part of such a dedicated global community.
“My commitment remains steadfast: to lead a federation that puts its member clubs at the core of everything we do and to continue to deliver across my manifesto promises.
“I remain committed to expanding motorsport participation through grassroots initiatives and accessibility programmes,” the statement added.
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