Rally legend Carlos Sainz has officially withdrawn from consideration for the presidency of motorsport’s governing body, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), just months before the highly anticipated December elections.
The 63-year-old, who had publicly expressed interest in running back in May, confirmed in a statement that he will not pursue the top administrative role, citing “non-ideal” circumstances and a deep commitment to his competitive racing career.
Sainz, one of the most respected and decorated figures in rallying, emphasized that the timing and demands of a potential FIA presidency campaign clashed directly with his preparations for the 2026 Dakar Rally.
The veteran Spaniard, fresh off his fourth Dakar Rally victory in January 2024, is set to return to Saudi Arabia next year, this time behind the wheel of Ford’s new entry in the grueling off-road event.
“I have realised that properly running for president would notably compromise my preparation for the Dakar. I do not wish to weaken my commitment to Ford and my team. These concerns have therefore inclined me to be realistic and desist from my FIA endeavour for now.”
Rally legend Carlos Sainz
His potential candidacy had gained traction among fans and industry insiders alike, especially amid mounting dissatisfaction with the current FIA leadership under Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
However, Sainz made it clear that his decision was not based solely on personal ambition but rather on a pragmatic assessment of his ability to deliver on both fronts; competitive and administrative.
“After deep reflection, I’ve decided not to present my candidacy for the upcoming FIA elections. The present circumstances are not ideal to set the grounds for my candidacy. I believe the FIA still needs important changes, which I remain genuinely hopeful will be tackled in the upcoming years.”
Rally legend Carlos Sainz
Focus On Competition
Often dubbed El Matador by fans, the Spaniard has had a remarkable career spanning over three decades. In addition to his triumphs in the World Rally Championship (WRC), where he won two world titles, Sainz has become an iconic figure in the Dakar Rally, which he has now won in three different decades.
Sainz’s decision also shines a light on the current state of the FIA, which has seen its fair share of turbulence under Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s presidency.
Since taking office in 2021, Ben Sulayem’s leadership has been marked by a series of controversial moves, including sweeping changes to the FIA’s internal statutes, high-profile dismissals, and strained relationships with key stakeholders in Formula 1.
Most notably, the FIA is currently embroiled in a legal battle with Susie Wolff, head of the F1 Academy and wife of Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff. Susie Wolff filed a lawsuit against the governing body over an alleged conflict of interest inquiry that she claims was baseless and damaging.
The legal proceedings have only intensified scrutiny of Ben Sulayem’s leadership and raised questions about governance and transparency within the organization.
In addition, the president’s perceived efforts to consolidate power have not sat well with teams, drivers, and F1’s commercial rights holders, Liberty Media.
Several decisions and statements from the FIA in recent seasons have created friction with Formula 1’s leadership, leading to widespread calls for reform and a more collaborative approach.
With Carlos Sainz stepping aside, Mohammed Ben Sulayem currently stands as the sole declared candidate for the December election. However, with the deadline for nominations still open, the door remains ajar for another challenger to step forward.
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