Mohammed Ben Sulayem Re-elected Unopposed as FIA President

Mohammed Ben Sulayem has been re-elected unopposed for a second term as President of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the governing body for world motorsport. The election took place in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, securing him another four-year mandate at the helm of one of the most influential organizations in global motorsport.

Why it matters:

The FIA presidency wields significant influence over the technical, sporting, and financial regulations of Formula 1 and other world championships. An uncontested re-election grants Ben Sulayem continued authority to shape the future direction of the sport during a period of rapid evolution, including the introduction of new engine regulations in 2026 and ongoing debates about sustainability and cost control.

The details:

• The election was held ahead of the FIA's 2025 Prize-Giving ceremony in Tashkent.
• Ben Sulayem faced no opposition, confirming his consolidated position within the FIA's member clubs.
• His first term was marked by several high-profile initiatives and controversies, including a push for greater transparency in F1's financial dealings and public spats with Liberty Media over the sport's commercial value and expansion.

Looking ahead:

Ben Sulayem's second term will be critical in navigating the finalization and implementation of the 2026 power unit regulations, a cornerstone of F1's future. His leadership will also be tested in managing the balance between the commercial interests of Formula 1's owners, the competitive fairness for teams, and the FIA's role as an independent regulator. The uncontested nature of his win suggests a mandate for continuity, but the challenges ahead require decisive and diplomatic stewardship.