Ben Sulayem: Committed to ensuring the FIA is on the right track

Thursday, 10 April 2025 at 10:48

Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) President Mohammed Ben Sulayem looks back on the progress made during his leadership of Formula 1's governing body while hailing the progress of motorsport in the Gulf region.

Now well into his fourth year in the role as FIA President, Ben Sulayem used the build-up to the 2025 Bahrain Grand Prix to outline key achievements since taking office in December 2021 and to highlight the growing impact of the Middle East on global motorsport.

Ben Sulayem reflected: “The first three years were both busy and successful. Over 2,000 hours of consultation with clubs and members shaped the development of my 2021 manifesto, creating a clear vision and action plan for the future, which we are still working towards today.

“I remain committed to placing our members at the heart of the FIA and ensuring the Federation is on the right track," added Ben Sulayem, who is up for re-election in December 2025. Under current regulations, the President is eligible to run for two more four-year terms.

2024 was the FIA’s 120th anniversary

Ben Sulayem continued: "The anniversary was marked by hard work and key achievements. Financial reforms and a sustainable model led to a forecasted operational result of €2.2 million, a significant improvement from the -€24 million deficit I inherited in 2021. Our ongoing efforts to enhance our operational and commercial strategies will see this trend continue.”

Ben Sulayem stressed the Federation’s knowledge-based direction and emphasis on long-term opportunities within motorsport: “We have taken a knowledge-driven approach within the Federation, promoting education and the sharing of information to create more career opportunities in motorsport.

"Last year, 13,500 individual courses were completed through the FIA University, and we delivered 70 motorsport safety research projects.

“It was a privilege to lead the FIA during such a significant milestone last year, marking over a century of innovation and progress. By continuing to work together, we can ensure further success for the next century." added the FIA president.

Ben Sulayem: Middle East has added fascination to Formula 1

BAHRAIN, BAHRAIN - FEBRUARY 26: Isack Hadjar of France driving the (6) Visa Cash App Racing Bulls VCARB 02 on track during day one of F1 Testing at Bahrain International Circuit on February 26, 2025 in Bahrain, Bahrain. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202502260769 // Usage for editorial use only //

Looking ahead to the double-header of Formula 1 races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, with Qatar and Abu Dhabi still to come later in the season, Ben Sulayem emphasised the region’s increasing importance to the FIA Formula 1 World Championship.

Ben Sulayem explained: “The Arab world plays a very important part in the F1 championship calendar, and the Grand Prix races and venues in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Abu Dhabi have each added their own special character and fascination to the sport’s global appeal.

“It’s now 21 years since the Bahrain Grand Prix first introduced the Middle East to the calendar, and the event’s success paved the way for its neighbouring countries to follow in its footsteps, and invest in the top level of motorsport.”

Ben Sulayem concluded by linking this regional rise to the FIA’s broader objectives for growth and inclusion: “During this time, the region's engagement with Formula 1 has evolved from hosting races to fostering a passionate fan base and promoting inclusivity within the sport, something which is central to the FIA’s strategy for motorsport growth and development.”

(Source: Total Communications)

History of Formula 1 in the Middle East

2004: Bahrain hosts the first Middle Eastern Formula 1 Grand Prix

Date: April 4, 2004
Event: Inaugural Bahrain Grand Prix at the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir
Winner: Michael Schumacher (Ferrari)
Significance: First Formula 1 race ever held in the Middle East

2009: Abu Dhabi joins the F1 calendar with the Yas Marina Circuit

abu dhabi grand prix yas marina circuit aerial view

Date: November 1, 2009
Event: First Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at the Yas Marina Circuit
Winner: Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull)
Notable Feature: First F1 race to start in daylight and end under floodlights

2011: Bahrain Grand Prix cancelled due to civil unrest

Date: June 10, 2011
Event: The Bahrain Grand Prix was cancelled due to anti-government protests and safety concerns

2014: Bahrain hosts its first night race

Lewis Hamilton Nico Rosberg Mercedes AMG F1 W05 Bahrain Grand Prix

Date: April 6, 2014
Event: To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Bahrain GP, the race was held at night under floodlights for the first time
Winner: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
Significance: Widely praised for its spectacle and improved racing conditions

2020: Bahrain hosts two races amid the COVID-19 pandemic

Dates: November 29 and December 6, 2020
Events:
- Bahrain Grand Prix (traditional layout)
- Sakhir Grand Prix (outer loop layout, used only once)
Winners:
- Bahrain GP: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
- Sakhir GP: Sergio Pérez (Racing Point), his maiden F1 win