Former commissioner Tim Mayer could run against Mohammed Ben Sulayem for FIA Presidency

FIA presidency, major shake-up in sight: after dismissal, a new challenger to Ben Sulayem emerges

A significant development may soon impact the leadership of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the governing body of world motorsport, including Formula 1. According to recent reports, a new name could be added to the list of potential candidates for the position of FIA President. Following multiple rejections from other prominent figures within the motorsport world, former FIA commissioner Tim Mayer has reportedly positioned himself as a serious contender to challenge current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

Over the past few months, several high-profile names — including former racing drivers and experienced insiders — had been speculated as possible candidates to lead the FIA. One of the most recent names to surface was that of Carlos Sainz Sr., father of Scuderia Ferrari Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz Jr. The Spanish rally legend, however, officially declined the opportunity, citing ongoing commitments in other competitions, most notably his continued involvement in the Dakar Rally.

Now, a new potential candidate is gaining attention. As reported by Autosport.com, 59-year-old American Tim Mayer is reportedly preparing to step forward as a challenger. Mayer, the son of the late Teddy Mayer — co-owner and one of the historic figures behind the McLaren Formula 1 team — previously served as a long-standing FIA commissioner until late 2024.

Dismissal by Mohammed Ben Sulayem after 15 years of service

Tim Mayer’s dismissal came abruptly in November 2024, reportedly executed via a brief text message from current FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The termination ended Mayer’s 15-year tenure at the federation and raised eyebrows throughout the paddock and beyond.

According to sources close to the matter, the dismissal was allegedly linked to Mayer’s involvement in an appeal against a fine issued to the Circuit of the Americas (COTA). The Texas-based circuit was sanctioned by the FIA after fans invaded the track prematurely following the conclusion of the United States Grand Prix — a violation of safety protocols. Mayer reportedly played a role in the circuit’s efforts to appeal the penalty, which may have contributed to the deterioration of his relationship with the federation’s leadership.

Candidacy process and upcoming announcement

To formalize his candidacy for the FIA presidency, Tim Mayer will be required to submit a full electoral list, including ten individuals proposed for key leadership roles within the FIA’s internal structure. Although no official confirmation has yet been released by Mayer or his representatives, multiple sources have indicated that a press conference is expected to take place near the Silverstone Circuit on Friday morning, just ahead of the 2025 British Grand Prix weekend.

Should Mayer confirm his candidacy, the move would signal a dramatic challenge to the current administration and could set the stage for a contested election ahead of the next regulatory cycle — particularly with 2026 marking the introduction of major rule changes in Formula 1 and beyond.

Longstanding motorsport experience

Before entering the top tier of international motorsport governance, Tim Mayer built a substantial career as an executive in various racing series. His experience includes senior roles in both the IMSA SportsCar Championship and the American Le Mans Series — two cornerstone championships in North American endurance racing.

With over two decades of motorsport leadership and an extensive background in race operations and regulatory affairs, Mayer’s potential candidacy could inject new momentum into discussions around the FIA’s future direction. If confirmed, it would mark a high-profile political showdown at a critical juncture for global motorsport.