FIA member clubs rally behind Ben Sulayem

Member clubs show solidarity with FIA president

In the aftermath of Mohammed Ben Sulayem being cleared of wrongdoing in an ethics investigation, a group of over 30 FIA member clubs and sports federations from the Americas have voiced their emphatic support for the FIA president.

Their jointly signed letter, published on the FIA website, strongly backs Ben Sulayem and recommends legal action against those accused of slandering the organization and its leadership.

Allegations and investigation

The investigation stemmed from a whistleblower's claims that Ben Sulayem had interfered with stewards' decisions at the 2022 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and overstepped his authority in approving the safety certificate for the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix.

However, the FIA's Ethics Committee, after a 30-day probe involving interviews with 11 witnesses, found no wrongdoing on Ben Sulayem's part.

Endorsing investigation findings

The member clubs wholeheartedly endorsed the Ethics Committee's findings, stating:

"The resolution of the Ethics Committee ratifies that the President of the FIA, Mr. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, acted honourably, transparently and independently."

Countering allegations and reaffirming confidence

The letter firmly dismisses allegations against Ben Sulayem as attempts to "cause harm to the FIA and its leadership."

It reaffirms the clubs' confidence in the president, stating,

"We endorse and ratify our vote of confidence in support of Mr. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, for his stewardship of the FIA and his progress to fulfilling his commitment to transform the FIA in an ethical and transparent manner."

Call for legal action

Notably, the clubs "recommend that the FIA initiate legal action against those who, without cause, slander the FIA and its leadership."

This strong stance suggests a willingness to take legal measures to defend the governing body's reputation.

Signatories and future implications

The letter bears signatures from member clubs across the Americas, including representatives from Colombia, Canada, Ecuador, and Mexico, among others.

Interestingly, Fabiana Ecclestone, wife of former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone and a potential future presidential candidate, has also signed the letter, signaling her alignment with Ben Sulayem's leadership.

As the FIA navigates these challenges, the unified support from its member clubs across the Americas solidifies Ben Sulayem's position and sends a clear message about the governing body's stance on defending its integrity.