Mohammed Ben Sulayem has confirmed he will run for a second term as FIA president — but insists he won't stand in the way of challengers, including Carlos Sainz Sr.
The 63-year-old Emirati has led the Paris-based governing body since succeeding Jean Todt in 2021, but his tenure has been marred by controversy, resignations, and increasingly vocal criticism.
Ben Sulayem believes part of the friction stems from Formula 1's commercial structure under Liberty Media.
"Raw deals have been given to the FIA," he told Reuters.
"It doesn't make sense to me that one driver and one team principal make more money than all of the FIA, and the FIA owns the championship."
He dismissed the criticism aimed at him: "I cleaned up the house. I am the last one who cares what they do, what they say."
Several names have emerged as potential challengers in the run-up to the next presidential election in December, including Susie Wolff, David Richards, and Alex Wurz.
However, the only candidate openly considering a run so far is rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr.
Ben Sulayem says he welcomes the competition: "Let him stand," he said. "That is democracy."
Despite the turbulent first term, Ben Sulayem confirmed he will seek re-election.
"I feel having three years in a complex federation like the FIA is not enough," he said. "Do I need more time? Yes.
"Has it been easy? Never. Has it been enjoyable? Sometimes. So, I am going (to stand)."
