Carlos Sainz Sr explains why “now is the right time” to consider running for FIA president

English

Gazeta Express

07/05/2025 23:11

Carlos Sainz Sr has said “now is the right time” to consider running for FIA president, as he dismissed any suggestion of a conflict of interest.

Speaking exclusively to Motorsport.com, the two-time World Rally champion said he was “currently in the process of figuring out how much support I will get from the community of motorsport”.

The next presidential election will be held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan on 12 December, and incumbent Mohammed Ben Sulayem is expected to seek a second term. No other candidates have yet come forward.

When asked what he would bring to the role, Sainz said it would be his track record of how he has previously worked.

“Well, everybody has his own way of running [an organisation], his own beliefs on what is best and his own way of understanding this sport and the world of mobility,” he said.

“I think my track record shows that when I’m committed to something I only know one way to do things, which is professionally, seriously and straightforward. Then it will be up to the community to decide.”

The FIA has seen relations with Formula 1 strained over the past few years due to the list of controversies.

Sainz would not be drawn on Ben Sulayem’s controversial term in office, in which he was investigated for potentially influencing the outcome of a race, has fallen out with the drivers across different series over his ban on swearing, and has recently faced an exodus of senior executives from the Paris-based organisation.

“I think obviously lately there has been some controversy, but I want to concentrate on myself. I leave the judgment to others,” he said.

“If I do this [run for president] it will not be to fight anyone, it will be out of passion and love for motorsport, because I believe I can help and improve certain things.

“I believe it is probably the right time for me personally and professionally, and that is why I am considering it.”

Sainz said that his previous role as a driver meant he would ensure he listened to everyone involved in the sport to improve relations between the governing body and the different racing bodies.

“I have been on the other side of motorsport and I know how important it is to listen to everybody – drivers, teams, fans, organizers, promoters, social, manufacturers. I truly think I can make that relationship much smoother and stronger,” he said.

“I would like to see the future of the FIA as an entity that is really appreciated and respected by everybody.”

Sainz will now determine how much support he has before deciding if he will formally put himself forward as a candidate.