Political triumph for FIA President bin Sulayem: Critics warn of concentration of power and loss of democratic structures within the FIA
The FIA General Assembly has approved changes to the statutes and code of ethics of the world governing body – a move that is seen as a political victory for President Mohamed bin Sulayem, but is being criticized, particularly in Europe, due to fears that it will weaken governance standards.
On Thursday, the General Assembly, which met in Macau this week, approved a series of changes. These include bringing forward the deadline for potential presidential candidates to register, giving the president greater influence over the composition of the FIA Senate, and aligning the terms of office of the Audit, Ethics and Nominations Committees with the four-year term of the president.
In addition, a clause was introduced whereby potential presidential candidates can be blocked if their previous career raises doubts about their integrity.
Large majority in favor of changes – despite criticism
As first reported by the BBC, 83.35 percent of members approved the changes to the statutes. The changes to the code of ethics received 88.83 percent approval.
In an official statement, the FIA commented: “Since 2021, the FIA has taken steps to strengthen its corporate governance principles. These guidelines guide the work of the FIA and ensure that its rules, practices and processes are robust and transparent.”
“The proposed amendments to the FIA statutes aim to further improve the processes surrounding governance and confidentiality. They give the Nomination Committee more time to review the suitability of candidates and help ensure consistency and diligence in the election process.”
“All proposed amendments were approved by a qualified majority of FIA member clubs at the General Assemblies, in line with the Federation’s democratic decision-making process.”
Victory for bin Sulayem – despite growing criticism
The clear vote result is widely seen as a significant success for bin Sulayem, who is up for re-election at the next General Assembly in Tashkent in December. In recent years, he has come under increasing criticism for his leadership style. David Richards, chairman of Motorsport UK, for example, expressed concerns about a “loss of accountability and good governance within the FIA.” During his tenure, there has been a noticeable high turnover of officials.
Robert Reid, former vice president for sport under bin Sulayem, resigned in April. He cited concerns about “critical decisions being made without proper process” and a “fundamental breakdown in governance standards” under bin Sulayem’s leadership as his reasons for stepping down.
Critics see the recent changes to the statutes as an expansion of the president’s powers. Richards was barred from attending a meeting of the World Motor Sport Council after refusing to sign a stricter confidentiality agreement.
Resistance from Europe – Criticism of haste and conflicts of interest
As reported by Reuters, the Austrian automobile club ÖAMTC called on the mobility members of the FIA World Council to vote against the proposals in a letter. The letter was sent on the eve of the vote in Macau.
“There is no urgency for these proposed changes… they could further damage the FIA’s reputation as an organization with competent and transparent governance,” according to Reuters.
The letter goes on to say: “It cannot be – and is probably not – the case that changes relevant to the FIA elections are being pushed through at the very moment when the incumbent president announces his intention to stand for re-election. If there is even the slightest appearance that these changes serve the current FIA leadership rather than the organization itself, they should not be adopted.”
No opponents – Sainz Sr. considering candidacy
At the time of reporting, bin Sulayem has no opponents for the December election. However, rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr. said in May that he was considering running.
Sainz, father of Williams Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz Jr., would be well received with a possible candidacy, especially in the Formula 1 paddock, where bin Sulayem has been criticized several times in the past, among other things for a curse ban that has since been watered down.
Strong international backing for the incumbent
Thursday’s vote once again underscores the incumbent president’s comfortable position on the international stage. Last month, bin Sulayem received a declaration of support from 36 members, mainly from America. He also enjoys broad support in Africa and Asia.
Each FIA member country has the same maximum number of votes: 24 votes – 12 for the sport and 12 for mobility.
