May 30 (GMM) It will not be “easy” to dethrone FIA’s current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
That’s the admission of the man most likely to take on the current boss of F1’s governing body in the December elections – Carlos Sainz senior.
“I’m considering it,” the 63-year-old, whose son and namesake drives for Williams, said in Barcelona.
“I’m exploring what it would mean to be FIA president. It’s a highly respected institution, and there are many people encouraging me, although I’m currently only considering it.”
Reports recently suggested Ben Sulayem – also 63 – was tweaking FIA statutes to make it harder for potential candidates like Sainz to put together a full management team.
The FIA boss denied that in Monaco: “Let him (Sainz) stand. That is democracy.”
Also democratic is the emergence of a new letter – reportedly inked by Bernie Ecclestone’s wife Fabiana, who is the FIA vice president for sport in South America – hailing the “extraordinary” job done by Ben Sulayem.
It was signed by three dozen FIA-affiliated clubs from North and South America.
“We understand that four years is a short time to complete the ambitious reforms you have initiated,” the leaked letter to Ben Sulayem reads, according to Arab News.
“Therefore, we strongly encourage you to seek re-election at the upcoming AGA so that you may continue the important work you have started, with our full support.”
In that sort of climate, rallying legend Sainz admitted it will not be “easy” to take on the FIA incumbent.
“It’s not easy,” he said, “because the current president is running for re-election, and things are always better handled from within.
“In any case, I haven’t said yes or no yet,” added the Spaniard.
When asked if he would be able to combine being FIA president with continuing to contest the Dakar rally, Sainz senior answered: “I don’t think so.
“It’s one thing to compete in next year’s Dakar, which would be understandable since the elections are in December and the rally is in January, but not after that.
“If it goes ahead, I would have to stop competing in the future. But I can’t say much else because I’m working on it.
“I don’t have the team around me yet either. I have someone I’d like to support me, but now is not the time to say any more.”
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES