MOTORSPORT – NATIONAL motorsport and mobility authorities from across the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region have delivered another vote of confidence in Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s leadership of the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), and urged him to seek re-election as president.
Twenty-nine FIA member clubs have written to Ben Sulayem saying that his tenure “has brought vital reforms across mobility and motorsport, marked by enhanced transparency, governance, sustainability, and inclusivity.”
Backing him for a second term in office, they expressed confidence that this will “further strengthen and modernise the organisation for the benefit of all its members and stakeholders.”
In a letter of support to Ben Sulayem, the clubs said: “Your vision has helped bridge gaps, inspire unity, and empower regions like ours to contribute more meaningfully to the global FIA mission.
“We now feel equal as members of the FIA regardless of our size or location. We are proud to stand behind a leader from our region who has shown integrity, innovation, and courage in driving positive change on the world stage.”
Among the senior regional officials to sign the letter were FIA vice-president for sport Mena and Bahrain Motor Federation president Shaikh Abdulla bin Isa Al Khalifa.
Ben Sulayem responded: “This support holds special meaning for me, given my close connection to the region. I’ve seen firsthand the exceptional talent, commitment, and ambition that define the MENA community, and it is a true honour to have this backing.
“The work being done by clubs in both sport and mobility across the region reflects the core values of the FIA – from grassroots initiatives like the Mena Karting Cup to ongoing efforts in road safety and sustainable mobility.”