MOTORSPORT VETERAN CHALLENGES BEN SULAYEM FOR FIA LEADERSHIP
Jeff Mayer, a long-time figure in international motorsport, has officially announced his candidacy for the presidency of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). The 59-year-old will run against current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem in the upcoming election. Mayer’s campaign comes despite his dismissal from his role as a Formula 1 steward by Ben Sulayem last November—a move he insists does not influence his decision to run.

A VISION FOR CHANGE AND BROADER REPRESENTATION
Mayer’s campaign is rooted in a call for reform. He emphasized the need for stronger representation of member clubs, greater inclusiveness, and a wider impact across both motorsport and mobility sectors. “The FIA can do better,” Mayer stated, calling for a leadership that actively listens to its stakeholders—from grassroots clubs to the top tiers of international racing.

CRITICISM OF THE CURRENT ADMINISTRATION
A key focus of Mayer’s challenge is what he describes as unmet promises from the current administration. He accused Ben Sulayem of centralizing power and straying from campaign commitments made in 2021, including promises to increase transparency and maintain a non-executive presidency.

“We were promised transparency and decentralization, but we’ve seen the opposite,” Mayer said. “The leadership has concentrated power through repeated statute changes. It’s the illusion of integrity, not the real thing.”

FIA DEFENDS ITS RECORD AND PROCESS
In response, the FIA defended Ben Sulayem’s leadership, pointing to reforms aimed at enhancing governance, transparency, and operational consistency since he took office. A spokesperson stated that changes to the organization’s structure have been implemented with full approval of member clubs and are meant to uphold high standards across its activities.

“The FIA presidential election is a structured and democratic process,” the spokesperson said. “It ensures fairness, transparency, and integrity at every stage.”

MAYER’S CREDENTIALS AND BROADER GOALS
With over 15 years as a Formula 1 race steward and leadership roles in IndyCar, IMSA, and the American Le Mans Series, Mayer brings extensive motorsport experience. However, he stressed that his vision goes beyond racing, noting the potential for impact in areas such as sustainability, safety, and mobility access.

“While I come from motorsport, I’ve spent the last six months exploring mobility. That’s where I see the biggest opportunity for global impact,” Mayer stated.

A DEFINING ELECTION AHEAD FOR THE FIA
As Mayer’s campaign gains traction, the upcoming FIA presidential race is set to become a pivotal moment for the organisation, with internal governance, transparency, and global engagement firmly under the spotlight.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)

1. Who is Jeff Mayer?
Jeff Mayer is a motorsport veteran with over 15 years of experience as a Formula 1 steward. He has also worked in leadership roles in IndyCar, IMSA, and the American Le Mans Series.

2. Why is Mayer running for FIA president?
Mayer believes the FIA needs stronger representation, more transparency, and greater inclusiveness. He aims to decentralize leadership and ensure the FIA serves both motorsport and global mobility more effectively.

3. What are his criticisms of current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem?
Mayer accuses Ben Sulayem of centralizing authority and not fulfilling campaign promises made in 2021, particularly around maintaining a non-executive presidency and enhancing transparency.

4. How has the FIA responded to Mayer’s claims?
The FIA says all reforms were democratically approved and are intended to improve governance, consistency, and confidentiality. It insists the election process is fair and transparent.

5. When will the FIA presidential election take place?
The election date has not been officially announced yet, but it is expected to take place in the coming months as part of the FIA’s structured electoral calendar.