In a powerful show of confidence, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), has secured overwhelming support from motorsport federations across the Americas as he seeks re-election for a second four-year term.
The Emirati motorsport icon, who announced his candidacy earlier this month, received formal endorsements from an impressive coalition of 36 automotive clubs spanning North and South America. Regional vice-presidents joined forces to praise his transformative leadership since taking office in December 2021.
Financial documents reveal how Ben Sulayem engineered what supporters call "the great FIA turnaround," rescuing the governing body from what was described as "catastrophic" economic conditions inherited from predecessor Jean Todt's administration.
"We are all acutely aware of the dire financial situation you confronted upon taking office," stated the joint endorsement letter. "Your immediate strategic interventions not only stabilized our organization but positioned it for unprecedented growth."
The letter highlights how Ben Sulayem's administration simultaneously implemented professional management systems while achieving financial recovery - a dual accomplishment praised as "extraordinary" given the compressed timeline.
Club presidents particularly noted the president's hands-on engagement style: "We've personally experienced your team's member-focused approach that values every federation equally - this inclusive philosophy has fundamentally changed our relationship with headquarters."
Beyond fiscal management, supporters emphasized how the former rally champion (with fourteen Middle East championship titles) has elevated FIA's global profile in both competitive motorsports and automotive innovation sectors.
"The strength and reputation of our federation have demonstrably grown under your guidance," continued the endorsement. "You've successfully repositioned FIA as thought leaders across mobility solutions while maintaining our competitive edge."Touched by this continental show of support, Ben Sulayem reaffirmed his commitment to grassroots development programs like Affordable Cross Car and Global Karting Plan - initiatives designed to democratize access to motorsports worldwide."My vision extends beyond balance sheets," said the president. "We're empowering regional development through mobility expertise while leading critical conversations about sustainable transportation ecosystems." He added: "Together we're building an FIA that inspires pride across all levels."While no formal challengers have emerged, rumors suggest potential opposition from Carlos Sainz Sr., former World Rally Champion. When questioned about possible competition by Reuters, Ben Sulayem responded with characteristic sportsmanship: "Let him stand. That is democracy."
