Rally icon Carlos Sainz Sr, a two-time World Rally Champion and Dakar Rally veteran, is contemplating a bid for the presidency of the FIA, motorsport’s global governing authority. At 63, Sainz has begun evaluating potential support across the motorsport landscape, hinting at a growing seriousness toward this bold transition. His opponent could be the embattled incumbent, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, whose presidency since 2021 has been marred by controversy and resignations from key leadership figures.
Sainz envisions this move as a culmination of his storied career and a means of giving back to a sport that has defined his life. Confident in his leadership capabilities and integrity, he expressed a commitment to building a team capable of reforming and revitalizing the FIA. With a reputation for discipline and wisdom, Sainz is widely seen within the motorsport community as a credible and consequential alternative to the current regime.
Despite his son Carlos Jr.’s ongoing Formula 1 career, Sainz Sr. firmly denied any potential conflicts of interest. He stated that stepping away from direct involvement in his son’s career would be a necessary and manageable sacrifice. According to Sainz, their personal bond and professional boundaries are strong enough to withstand any complications arising from his potential presidency.
The FIA, under Ben Sulayem, has faced mounting internal upheaval. High-ranking officials, including Robert Reid and Natalie Robyn, have publicly criticized the organization for a breakdown in governance and structural dysfunction. These resignations followed a series of removals, including the head of the audit committee and the compliance officer—moves that have only intensified scrutiny of the FIA’s leadership practices.
Amid legal action from F1 Academy head Susie Wolff and dissent among key figures, the FIA finds itself in a state of growing disarray. George Russell and other prominent voices have called for transparency and reform, while the return of controversial figure Shaila-Ann Rao has raised further alarm. In this chaotic backdrop, Sainz’s candidacy offers a potentially stabilizing force, promising a return to ethical standards and functional governance.