The FIA has officially declared that Mohammed ben Sulayem has been re-elected for a second term as the head of the motorsport governing body. This was expected as election regulations restricted any other contenders from entering the race.
With no other candidates meeting the eligibility criteria, Ben Sulayem emerged as the sole nominee, securing 91.5 percent of the vote during the election held at the FIA General Assembly in Uzbekistan. Following his victory, delegates gave him a standing ovation.
Despite the election proceeding as planned, uncertainties surround its legitimacy as a hearing is scheduled in mid-February to review the election process. Laura Villars, one of the potential challengers, sought legal action in France, raising doubts about the fairness of the election.
Villars, along with Tim Mayer and Virginie Philippot, had expressed interest in contesting against Ben Sulayem but failed to fulfill the requirements, including nominating vice-presidents from all FIA global motorsport regions. The absence of suitable alternatives led to criticism and legal actions against the governing body.
The upcoming hearing in February will determine the fate of the election process. However, the FIA remains focused on its upcoming General Assemblies to address critical issues in the motorsport and automotive industry globally.
Following the re-election, Ben Sulayem is set to serve another four-year term overseeing various elite motorsport series, including the Formula 1 World Championship. He originally took office in 2021, succeeding Jean Todt, the former Ferrari team principal who led the organization for 12 years before stepping down.
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