FIA deputy president Reid resigns citing "erosion of principles"

Robert Reid said he had resigned as an FIA deputy president on Thursday due to a "fundamental breakdown in governance standards" within motorsport's world governing body.

The Scot was a prominent member of FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem's team, with the Emirati expected to seek re-election in December.

The resignation, after Reid and Motorsport UK head David Richards opposed the governing body's recent statute changes, will be a talking point ahead of the weekend's Bahrain Formula One Grand Prix.

Reid, the 2001 world rally champion co-driver, said in a statement: "When I took on this role it was to serve the FIA's members; not to serve power. Over time, I have witnessed a steady erosion of the principles we promised to uphold. Decisions are being made behind closed doors, bypassing the very structures and people the FIA exists to represent.

Reid added: "My resignation is not about personalities; it is about principles. Motorsport deserves leadership that is accountable, transparent, and member-driven. I can no longer, in good faith, remain part of a system that does not reflect those values."

There was no immediate reaction from Ben Sulayem, who is due to attend F1 meetings and the grand prix at Sakhir, but an FIA spokesman said a statement was being prepared.

Reid also called on the FIA's member clubs and stakeholders to demand greater accountability from the federation´s leadership.

Richards, currently in the Middle East, wrote an open letter to Motorsport UK members on Wednesday referring to "a shift of the moral compass" at the FIA leadership and said he hoped to discuss matters with Ben Sulayem.

The FIA responded by thanking Reid for his service, stating: “The FIA is grateful for Robert Reid’s contribution to the FIA and to motorsport more widely. The FIA has exceptionally robust corporate governance policies which guide our operations and ensure our rules, practices and processes are adhered to.”