More clubs support Ben Sulayem for second term as FIA President

In a collective letter, 29 national motorsport and mobility authorities from across the MENA region credited Ben Sulayem for delivering “vital reforms across mobility and motorsport, marked by enhanced transparency, governance, sustainability, and inclusivity.”

As did Clubs in the Americas last week, the MENA clubs urged him to seek a second term in office, stating that his leadership “will further strengthen and modernise the organisation for the benefit of all its members and stakeholders.”

They continued: “Your vision has helped bridge gaps, inspire unity, and empower regions like ours to contribute more meaningfully to the global FIA mission.

“We now feel equal as members of the FIA regardless of our size or location. We are proud to stand behind a leader from our region who has shown integrity, innovation, and courage in driving positive change on the world stage.

“The modernisation of our institution and the strong emphasis you have placed on member engagement and regional development have greatly benefited our clubs and the communities we serve."

Among the senior officials to sign the letter were MENA FIA Vice President for Mobility Essa Hamza Al Failakawi (Kuwait) and FIA Vice President for Sport MENA Abdulla bin Issa Al Khalifa (Bahrain).

Responding to the letter, Ben Sulayem said: “I am deeply grateful for the trust and encouragement shown by the 29 Sport and Mobility Member Clubs from across the MENA region.

“This support holds special meaning for me, given my close connection to the region. I’ve seen firsthand the exceptional talent, commitment, and ambition that define the MENA community, and it is a true honour to have this backing.

“The work being done by clubs in both sport and mobility across the region reflects the core values of the FIA – from grassroots initiatives like the MENA Karting Cup to ongoing efforts in road safety and sustainable mobility.

“Together, we will continue to shape a stronger, more dynamic FIA – one that truly represents the strength, diversity, and potential of every region we serve.”

This latest show of regional support follows a similar endorsement earlier this year from 36 FIA clubs across the Americas.

At this stage, Ben Sulayem remains the clear favourite, especially with recent public endorsements from MENA and Americas clubs. Any challenger would need wide regional support, including from Europe, Asia, and Oceania, and a compelling alternative vision for both sport and mobility governance.

The formal nomination period typically opens around October, and the election will take place in December 2025 during the FIA Annual General Assembly.

While the likes of Susie Wolff and Carlos Sainz Sr. were unrealistically bandied about as potential FIA Prez's, the more likely of several potential challengers are being speculated.

Graham Stoker, who lost the election in 2021, remains a possible contender with moderate support. To become President, Ben Sulayem received 61.62% of the votes to Stoker’s 36.62%, with 1.76% of the members abstaining.

FIA Senate President Carmelo Sanz de Barros and Deputy President for Sport Robert Reid are also viewed as internal possibilities.

Some report that discontent among European ASNs could lead to a Jean Todt-era loyalist entering the race. Additionally, a mobility-focused outsider from clubs like AAA or ADAC is a remote but possible dark horse. No formal challengers have yet declared ahead of the upcoming election.