Ben Sulayem backed to seek new FIA term by member clubs across Americas - Middle East Business News and Information
Club leaders send letter of support as 'brothers' commending President for achieving 'extraordinary' turnaround
Dubai, UAE: Mohammed Ben Sulayem has received powerful backing to seek a second term of office as President of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) after achieving an 'extraordinary' turnaround in its fortunes.
A letter of support from 36 FIA Region III & IV clubs encompassing the Americas, and the Vice Presidents for Sport – North and South America, has strongly urged Ben Sulayem to continue his work to secure the future of the global governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide.
Representing clubs from across South and Central America, and Canada, and signed under the name of 'Hermanos' (brothers), the letter thanks the FIA President 'for your service, commitment, vision, and, above all, the delivery of your Manifesto promised to us, the members.
It goes on to say: 'We are all acutely aware of the catastrophic financial situation you inherited. Without the decisive and bold actions you took from day one, the very future of the FIA would have been at risk.
'The turnaround achieved in less than four years is nothing short of extraordinary, especially when coupled with the implementation of professional management systems that you deployed in parallel.
The letter adds: 'As club Presidents, we have personally felt and experienced the daily focus you and your leadership team have placed on supporting and engaging with us – the members – treating each of us with equal respect. This inclusive approach is deeply appreciated.
'We also recognize and commend the significant efforts made by you and your team to reposition the FIA as a global leader in both mobility and motorsport. The strength and reputation of the FIA brand have clearly grown as a result of your leadership.'
The Americas club presidents conclude their message to Ben Sulayem by saying: 'We
understand that four years is a short time to complete the ambitious reforms you have
initiated. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to seek re-election at the upcoming AGA, (FIA Annual General Assembly) so that you may continue the important work you have started, with our full support.'
Among those to have signed the letter of support is Ricardo Morales Rubio, FIA Region IV (South America and Central America) President, and Fabiana Ecclestone, FIA Vice President for Sport – South America.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sualyem, said: 'I am honoured by the support I've received from across 36 Member Clubs in Regions III and IV. It is a privilege to be part of such a dedicated global community.
'My commitment remains steadfast: to lead a federation that puts its Member Clubs at the core of everything we do and to continue to deliver across my manifesto promises.
'I remain committed to expanding motorsport participation through grassroots initiatives and accessibility programs like the Affordable Cross Car and the Global Karting Plan.
'At the same time, I continue to empower every region by leveraging the FIA's mobility expertise, reinforcing its central role in the automotive industry, and leading vital conversations around the future of sustainable cities, road safety, and intelligent transport systems. Together, we will continue to deliver a stronger FIA we can each be proud of.'
The FIA recently announced a pivotal turnaround in its financial health under the leadership of Ben Sulayem. At the end of the fiscal year 2024, the Fédération reported that is has achieved a robust operating result of € 4.7m, and an operating income of € 182.0m. This takes it from a considerable financial loss of €-24.0m in 2021, before Ben Sulayem was elected.
Since Ben Sulayem's election as President in 2021, the organisation has undergone a comprehensive strategic transformation process, designed to radically improve internal systems and processes.
The FIA has strengthened its teams, optimised its working practices and shifted to a more efficient and financially sustainable model.
The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) is the governing body for world motorsport and the federation for mobility organisations globally. It is a non-profit organisation committed to driving innovation and championing safety, sustainability and equality across motor sport and mobility.
Founded in 1904, with offices in Paris, London and Geneva, the FIA brings together 245 Member Organisations across five continents, representing millions of road users, motor sport professionals and volunteers. It develops and enforces regulations for motor sport, including seven FIA World Championships, to ensure worldwide competitions are safe and fair for all.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Mid East Info
2 days ago
- Mid East Info
Ben Sulayem backed to seek new FIA term by member clubs across Americas - Middle East Business News and Information
Club leaders send letter of support as 'brothers' commending President for achieving 'extraordinary' turnaround Dubai, UAE: Mohammed Ben Sulayem has received powerful backing to seek a second term of office as President of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) after achieving an 'extraordinary' turnaround in its fortunes. A letter of support from 36 FIA Region III & IV clubs encompassing the Americas, and the Vice Presidents for Sport – North and South America, has strongly urged Ben Sulayem to continue his work to secure the future of the global governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide. Representing clubs from across South and Central America, and Canada, and signed under the name of 'Hermanos' (brothers), the letter thanks the FIA President 'for your service, commitment, vision, and, above all, the delivery of your Manifesto promised to us, the members. It goes on to say: 'We are all acutely aware of the catastrophic financial situation you inherited. Without the decisive and bold actions you took from day one, the very future of the FIA would have been at risk. 'The turnaround achieved in less than four years is nothing short of extraordinary, especially when coupled with the implementation of professional management systems that you deployed in parallel. The letter adds: 'As club Presidents, we have personally felt and experienced the daily focus you and your leadership team have placed on supporting and engaging with us – the members – treating each of us with equal respect. This inclusive approach is deeply appreciated. 'We also recognize and commend the significant efforts made by you and your team to reposition the FIA as a global leader in both mobility and motorsport. The strength and reputation of the FIA brand have clearly grown as a result of your leadership.' The Americas club presidents conclude their message to Ben Sulayem by saying: 'We understand that four years is a short time to complete the ambitious reforms you have initiated. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to seek re-election at the upcoming AGA, (FIA Annual General Assembly) so that you may continue the important work you have started, with our full support.' Among those to have signed the letter of support is Ricardo Morales Rubio, FIA Region IV (South America and Central America) President, and Fabiana Ecclestone, FIA Vice President for Sport – South America. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sualyem, said: 'I am honoured by the support I've received from across 36 Member Clubs in Regions III and IV. It is a privilege to be part of such a dedicated global community. 'My commitment remains steadfast: to lead a federation that puts its Member Clubs at the core of everything we do and to continue to deliver across my manifesto promises. 'I remain committed to expanding motorsport participation through grassroots initiatives and accessibility programs like the Affordable Cross Car and the Global Karting Plan. 'At the same time, I continue to empower every region by leveraging the FIA's mobility expertise, reinforcing its central role in the automotive industry, and leading vital conversations around the future of sustainable cities, road safety, and intelligent transport systems. Together, we will continue to deliver a stronger FIA we can each be proud of.' The FIA recently announced a pivotal turnaround in its financial health under the leadership of Ben Sulayem. At the end of the fiscal year 2024, the Fédération reported that is has achieved a robust operating result of € 4.7m, and an operating income of € 182.0m. This takes it from a considerable financial loss of €-24.0m in 2021, before Ben Sulayem was elected. Since Ben Sulayem's election as President in 2021, the organisation has undergone a comprehensive strategic transformation process, designed to radically improve internal systems and processes. The FIA has strengthened its teams, optimised its working practices and shifted to a more efficient and financially sustainable model. The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) is the governing body for world motorsport and the federation for mobility organisations globally. It is a non-profit organisation committed to driving innovation and championing safety, sustainability and equality across motor sport and mobility. Founded in 1904, with offices in Paris, London and Geneva, the FIA brings together 245 Member Organisations across five continents, representing millions of road users, motor sport professionals and volunteers. It develops and enforces regulations for motor sport, including seven FIA World Championships, to ensure worldwide competitions are safe and fair for all.
Mid East Info
20-05-2025
- Mid East Info
Ben Sulayem guides FIA to financial turnaround, marking new era of growth and stability - Middle East Business News and Information
Federation reports strongest financial result in almost ten years – operating result of € 4.7m for FY2024, up from operating loss of €-24.0m in 2021 Dubai, UAE, 20th May, 2025: The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide, today announced a pivotal turnaround in its financial health under the leadership of FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. At the end of the fiscal year 2024, the Fédération reported that is has achieved a robust operating result of € 4.7m, and an operating income of € 182.0m. This takes it from a considerable financial loss of €-24.0m in 2021, before Ben Sulayem was elected. In line with Ben Sulayem's manifesto pledge, and under the FIA's new leadership since 2021, the organisation has undergone a comprehensive strategic transformation process, designed to radically improve internal systems and processes. It has strengthened its teams, optimised its working practices and shifted to a more efficient and financially sustainable model. Today's result, which will be published in full in the FIA's 2024 Activity Report in June, reflects this positive transition. 'Upon my election as President of the FIA, I committed to ensuring a profitable operation,' said Ben Sulayem. 'Today, I am incredibly proud to show that we have achieved this mission, delivering the strongest set of financial results in eight years. 'Improving the governance, transparency and financial health of the FIA was central to my manifesto pledge, and I will continue to work with all of our internal and external stakeholders to drive positive change within the FIA, to deliver better outcomes for our Member Clubs, our people and for all.' The operating result of € 4.7m marks a strong improvement from 2023, with operating income growth of €+26.7m respectively +17% year-on-year. The FIA is absent of any financial debt at the 2024 fiscal year end, and it reports a healthy equity ratio of 45%. The current leadership team has worked rigorously since 2021 to ameliorate its internal systems, controls and processes. It has strongly enhanced procurement control and automation, implemented internal quarterly reporting, and established a financial steering model which enables effective decision making within senior management. This model has enabled increased budget control and has allowed the FIA to review its pricing and reallocate resources to best pursue its strategic priorities across motor sport and mobility. In addition to these important measures, the FIA has introduced a second General Assembly mid-year, to ensure that prior year audited financial accounts can be established within the appropriate timeframe for release. For the second year running, the FIA will publish a full Activity Report ahead of the General Assembly in June. This year, the Activity Report has been enhanced by a new P&L presentation format which enhances clarity and transparency. The strengthened financial health of the FIA brings the organisation out of a five-year long period of substantial operating loss, enabling it to provide a world-class service to its 245 Member Clubs around the world, as well as reinvest into the seven World Championships under its governance. The FIA, which is a not-for-profit organisation, is well-placed to continue pushing forward its core objectives such as strengthening grassroots participation in motor sport and driving the sustainability agenda across the board. Caption: FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem – 'Improving the governance, transparency and financial health of the FIA was central to my manifesto pledge.' -ENDS- Notes to Editors: The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) is the governing body for world motorsport and the federation for mobility organisations globally. It is a non-profit organisation committed to driving innovation and championing safety, sustainability and equality across motor sport and mobility. Founded in 1904, with offices in Paris, London and Geneva, the FIA brings together 245 Member Organisations across five continents, representing millions of road users, motor sport professionals and volunteers. It develops and enforces regulations for motor sport, including seven FIA World Championships, to ensure worldwide competitions are safe and fair for all.
Mid East Info
15-05-2025
- Mid East Info
Ben Sulayem drives major improvements to Appendix B of FIA's International Sporting Code - Middle East Business News and Information
New guidance will significantly reduce the maximum penalties for drivers by 50% no matter the discipline Dubai, UAE: The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide, has announced that it will make major improvements to Appendix B of its International Sporting Code (ISC) following an extensive review commissioned by FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The latest version of Appendix B of the ISC was introduced in January 2025, aligning the FIA with other global sporting organisations such as FIFA, the National Football League and World Rugby, all of which have strong codes of conduct to protect the integrity of their respective sports. The ISC provides the stewards with the necessary regulatory tools to ensure they have all relevant information regarding the range of penalties that may be imposed and the procedures to be followed. This enables them to apply penalties in a consistent and transparent manner. The review was carried out in collaboration with the FIA Drivers' Committee and its President, Ronan Morgan, as well as the FIA Formula One Steward Chairs. Input was also received from FIA Members Clubs and other motor sport organisations across the seven FIA World Championships. The main changes to Appendix B are as follows: The base maximum penalty has been reduced generally from €10,000 to €5,000. This is a reduction of 50%. However, for FIA World Championships, where multipliers were involved, the reductions will be even more significant. Stewards will have the option to fully suspend a penalty for certain types of breach, provided it is the first offence by the driver or team. Following approval via e-vote by the WMSC, the amended Appendix B will allow stewards to differentiate between controlled and non-controlled environments, effectively recognising the difference between language used in 'uncontrolled' and 'controlled' environments. Controlled environments include settings such as press conferences, while uncontrolled environments refer to spontaneous comments made by drivers or teams when on track or during a rally stage. Mitigating circumstances will continue to be considered, with additional guidance available to promote consistency and fairness for all parties in the application of Appendix B. Abuse of officials will now result in sporting penalties rather than fines, aligning motor sport with other major global sports organisations Racial and discriminatory comments will continue to be addressed firmly. Stewards will retain the supreme authority to decide which penalty to impose in the event of a breach of the ISC. FIA President Ben Sulayem, said: 'As a former rally driver, I know firsthand the range of emotions that are faced during competition. I have led an extensive and collaborative review with contributions from across the seven FIA World Championships, FIA Member Clubs and other motor sports organisations. 'The improvements the FIA has announced today to Appendix B will ensure we continue to promote the best of sportsmanship in motor sport, while also giving Stewards effective guidelines to act against individuals who may bring the sport into disrepute. The FIA will always be committed to ensuring motor sport is accessible for all our sporting family.' Ronan Morgan said: 'Drivers are looked up to as role models by young fans and are rightly seen as ambassadors for the wider world of motor sport. How they act really does matter, but it is important to recognise that there is a difference between what is said during a race and in a press conference. 'Today's changes further strengthen the FIA's International Sporting Code supporting our drivers by understanding the pressures they face during the heat of competition.' The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) is the governing body for world motorsport and the federation for mobility organisations globally. It is a non-profit organisation committed to driving innovation and championing safety, sustainability and equality across motor sport and mobility. Founded in 1904, with offices in Paris, London and Geneva, the FIA brings together 245 Member Organisations across five continents, representing millions of road users, motor sport professionals and volunteers. It develops and enforces regulations for motor sport, including seven FIA World Championships, to ensure worldwide competitions are safe and fair for all.
