FIA President Ben Sulayem Starts New Term with Backing from F1 Bosses
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem begins a new, unopposed term. Key F1 figures, including Mercedes' Toto Wolff and McLaren's Zak Brown, publicly endorsed him, citing his leadership and the successful 2026 Concorde Agreement as major achievements.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has secured a new term after running unopposed, signaling a period of continued stability for the governing body. His re-election was met with public endorsements from key figures in the Formula 1 paddock, including team principals Toto Wolff and Zak Brown, who highlighted his contributions to the sport's current health and future stability.
Why it matters:
The backing from influential team bosses like Wolff and Brown is a significant vote of confidence, suggesting a more harmonious relationship between the FIA and the F1 teams. This stability is crucial as the sport navigates the upcoming 2026 regulatory changes and aims to build on its recent growth. A cooperative front between the governing body, the commercial rights holder, and the teams is essential for F1's long-term health and successful implementation of its future vision.
The details:
- Ben Sulayem ran unopposed after the World Motor Sport Council's selection process effectively cleared the field for his re-election.
- Toto Wolff (Mercedes): Praised Ben Sulayem's wide understanding of motorsport beyond F1, his funding of grassroots initiatives, and his focus on safety. Wolff emphasized the need for continued alignment between the FIA, F1, and the teams to develop the sport.
- Zak Brown (McLaren): Cited the quiet and fair completion of the 2026 Concorde Agreement as Ben Sulayem's greatest achievement to date. Brown stated the sport has "never been healthier" under the current leadership's focus on doing what's right for F1.
- Bernie Ecclestone (Former F1 Supremo): Described Ben Sulayem's work as "first-class," calling him straightforward and honest, and encouraged him to simply continue on his current path.
Looking Ahead:
With a new term secured and public support from key stakeholders, Ben Sulayem is positioned to lead the FIA through a critical period. The focus will likely remain on maintaining the collaborative spirit that led to the 2026 Concorde Agreement, ensuring the sport's next era of regulations is implemented smoothly and continues to fuel F1's growing global popularity.