The President of the FIA deplores the lack of credit given to the federation
Mohammed Ben Sulayem regrets that the FIA is too often criticized, while other sports stakeholders, such as Liberty Media, are widely praised. The president wishes for the FIA to be considered on par with these promoters, while continuing to work closely with them.
The President of the FIA, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, believes that it is impossible for the organization to receive the recognition it deserves because it is too often criticized.
According to him, the FIA should be more applauded for the progress it has made in various aspects of motorsport.
Reforms welcomed, but little recognized
Since taking over the FIA in December 2021, several reforms have been implemented. A program has been launched to train and mentor race directors, stewards, and judges, accompanied by the creation of a remote operations center to support race control.
A new approach to manage track limits has been implemented at the Red Bull Ring, and it has been approved by F1 drivers.
Interviewed by Autosport about the recognition given to the FIA for managing track limits, Ben Sulayem replied: « We will never receive credit. Impossible. We will only get criticism. I know that. »
A lack of consideration at all levels
Regarding the investments made by the FIA to improve motorsport, the president also believes that the organization does not receive the recognition it deserves: « When you think about it, everyone benefits from the FIA, except the FIA itself. Everyone receives praise, except the FIA. »
« When I took office, we were facing an operational deficit of 20 million. Why? Because our revenues are similar to those of others. But look at the developers… And I congratulate them, they are clever enough to achieve it… », he added.
An unequal partnership between the FIA and Liberty Media
Since Liberty Media took over the F1, the sport has experienced unprecedented growth, becoming more popular than ever.
Ben Sulayem acknowledges the success of Liberty Media in developing F1 and admits that no other company could have done as good a job: « I’m going to be very, very frank, as usual. Liberty Media has done a remarkable job in transforming Formula 1. They are excellent promoters, that’s undeniable. If you ask me today: is there anyone as competent as them? I think not. »
However, if he had the opportunity to go back, he would ensure that the FIA is considered as an equal partner with Liberty Media: « I would not go back to cancel that, but I would ensure that the FIA is on an equal footing with them. »
I support them in their actions. The FIA collaborates with them in the best possible way. But in the end, the regulations and governance are the responsibility of the FIA. But the FIA will never be recognized at its true value. It is impossible. », he concluded.
