Mayer Announces FIA Presidential Bid

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Accomplished motorsport official and executive Tim Mayer has announced his candidacy for FIA President.

The 59-year-old American, the son of McLaren co-founder Teddy Mayer, will go up against incumbent Mohammed Ben Sulayem in December’s presidential election.

Mayer, whose extensive resume includes previous executive roles in both the American Le Mans Series and Champ Car, became a FIA steward in 2009 and was on the permanent chair of Formula 1 stewards from 2016 until his controversial firing by Ben Sulayem last year, which came as a text message.

With more than 30 years of professional experience, Mayer holds a deep understanding of the FIA and its organizational structure.

As part of his bid, Mayer has launched the “FIA Forward” campaign, which is aimed at restoring “genuine democracy” within the world motorsport governing body.

“I believe I am the right person, at the right time, in the right place,” said Mayer. “I have 34 years of experience as a professional in motorsports, with a deep knowledge of the FIA as someone who’s been involved in the officiating side, governance, and as a deputy member of the World Council.

“I’ve been involved in many Commissions and Committees within the FIA so I have the experience necessary.

“I’ve also managed championships and large organisations (e.g. IMSA/IndyCar) across the Americas, Asia and Europe so I have a global understanding of what it takes to run an organization like the FIA.

“And, it’s the right time. We desperately need to raise the standards at the FIA and I feel deeply it needs a professional touch to increasing its standing worldwide. It needs someone who has a vision for what the organization can do and for the value we can bring to the Member Clubs.

“I am at a stage in my career where I am able to undertake this extraordinarily deep commitment.

“I have a passion for our Member Clubs, believe wholeheartedly in what Mobility and Sport does and consider that we have the opportunity to create a legacy which will make an impact on millions of lives. It’s an opportunity which is too good to pass up.”

He added: “FIA Forward believes strongly that governance must be the first pillar of real reform and that’s all about values.”

“FIA Forward is about restoring genuine democracy — where every member club, large or small, has a voice; promoting diverse perspectives as a structural priority; rebuilding a culture that welcomes challenge, where policy is built collaboratively; allocating resources to meet the needs of the clubs for long-term growth.

“Above all, we need transparent, two-way reporting, and honest evaluations because governance is not about control. It’s about service. The FIA must serve its members — not the other way around.

“I know what it takes to lead a global organization, one that partners with stakeholders, and treats them all with respect, how to deliver stability, how FIA governance should and can be achieved, and what it will take to hold the organization accountable.

“Most importantly, I’m very aware where the greatest difference can be made, by listening to and supporting Member Clubs — especially those in underserved regions.

“There’s a lot of work to do but we believe we have the right team to do it and aim to drive the FIA forward to a Federation that delivers real value, real partnership and real leadership. I hope you’ll come with me on the journey.”

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John