Introduction
Could motorsport governance be headed for a major shake-up? The legendary rally driver Carlos Sainz Sr. might just be the man to do it. With decades of racing success and deep respect from across the motorsport community, Sainz Sr. is making waves ahead of the 2025 FIA presidential election. His bid is more than just a rumor—it’s a growing movement, potentially signaling the end of the current era under Mohammed Ben Sulayem. But what makes Carlos Sainz Sr. a serious contender for the top job in motorsport?
Let’s take a deep dive into the drama, politics, and possibilities surrounding the FIA election and how the rally king might soon be steering the sport’s future.
Table of Contents
| Sr# | Headings |
|---|---|
| 1 | The Rising Tide: Sainz Sr.’s Growing Momentum |
| 2 | Who is Carlos Sainz Sr.? A Quick Look at His Legacy |
| 3 | From Rally Roads to Boardrooms: Why Now? |
| 4 | Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s Controversial Reign |
| 5 | Sainz’s Rally Achievements and FIA Relevance |
| 6 | Political Backing: The Hidden Engine of His Campaign |
| 7 | Why Drivers and Teams Are Quietly Watching |
| 8 | FIA’s Election Process: How It Works |
| 9 | If Elected: The Challenges Sainz Will Face |
| 10 | Sainz’s Vision for a Reformed FIA |
| 11 | A Global Motorsport Figure: The Unity Factor |
| 12 | Sainz on Safety, Sustainability, and Stewardship |
| 13 | The FIA’s Need for a Technical Voice |
| 14 | Public and Fan Reactions: Hope or Hesitation? |
| 15 | Conclusion: Could Carlos Sainz Be the Right Driver for FIA’s Future? |
1. The Rising Tide: Sainz Sr.’s Growing Momentum
The name “Carlos Sainz” may evoke images of rally cars flying through deserts and forests, but now it’s making headlines for a different reason. The two-time World Rally Champion is being seriously considered as a frontrunner in the race to become the next president of the FIA. Supporters within the FIA’s inner circles, particularly in Europe and Latin America, are rallying behind him—no pun intended. His quiet campaign is steadily transforming into a tidal wave.
2. Who is Carlos Sainz Sr.? A Quick Look at His Legacy
For those who may only know his son—Ferrari F1 driver Carlos Sainz Jr.—Carlos Sainz Sr. is a motorsport titan in his own right. He clinched the World Rally Championship in 1990 and 1992, and has conquered the Dakar Rally three times. Known for his strategic brilliance, unmatched perseverance, and technical insight, Sainz Sr. isn’t just a former driver—he’s a racing statesman.
3. From Rally Roads to Boardrooms: Why Now?
Why would a 62-year-old rally legend step into one of motorsport’s most demanding political roles? The answer lies in timing and transformation. With the FIA under fire and major changes needed, many see Sainz as a stabilizing force—someone who understands racing from the cockpit to the control room. His recent involvement with Audi’s Dakar team and motorsport governance in Spain has only sharpened his leadership chops.
4. Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s Controversial Reign
Elected in 2021, Mohammed Ben Sulayem promised reforms but instead triggered turbulence. F1 team bosses have criticized his handling of decisions, ranging from vague rule changes to poor communication. His term has seen conflict with Liberty Media, confusion over track regulations, and growing discontent within the FIA itself. For many, it feels like the organization needs a reboot—and Sainz could be the man with the wrench.
5. Sainz’s Rally Achievements and FIA Relevance
Carlos Sainz isn’t just a winner; he’s a consistent force of nature. He’s notched 97 podiums in WRC and made history by winning the Dakar Rally in three different decades. Beyond his trophies, his deep understanding of car dynamics, safety needs, and driver welfare makes him more than symbolic—he’s practical. And the FIA needs more than just figureheads right now; it needs motorsport thinkers.
6. Political Backing: The Hidden Engine of His Campaign
Behind closed doors, the gears are turning. Sources suggest that national motorsport federations in Spain, Argentina, Portugal, and Italy are expressing support for Sainz. Many of these are tired of F1-centric leadership and want a president who champions all racing disciplines. If this backing holds steady, Sainz may enter the election with a powerful bloc.
7. Why Drivers and Teams Are Quietly Watching
F1 drivers and teams haven’t officially commented, but you can bet they’re watching closely. Sainz Sr. has strong ties to the F1 paddock—not just through his son, but as a respected voice in motorsport. Teams frustrated with the current FIA leadership may see him as a breath of fresh air. Could his presidency improve communication, fix stewarding inconsistencies, and ensure a fairer race environment? That’s the hope.
8. FIA’s Election Process: How It Works
The FIA election is no popularity contest. It’s a structured affair involving over 240 member clubs across 146 countries. Each candidate must submit a full list of vice-presidential candidates, campaign internationally, and earn trust from federations representing various motorsport disciplines. Voting is held in December 2025, and the new president takes office immediately after results are declared.
9. If Elected: The Challenges Sainz Will Face
Let’s not sugarcoat it. Becoming FIA president in 2025 won’t be a Sunday drive. Sainz will need to:
- Modernize outdated regulations across all motorsport series.
- Mend broken relations with F1 stakeholders.
- Restore trust and transparency in the FIA’s decision-making.
- Advance climate and sustainability initiatives.
- Empower smaller championships and promote diversity in racing.
It’s a massive to-do list. But Sainz has never been one to back away from a steep climb.
10. Sainz’s Vision for a Reformed FIA
Sainz has made it clear through close circles that unity and modernity will be his pillars. That means giving rally and endurance racing equal voice, pushing for cleaner racing technologies, and redefining safety protocols. He’s also expected to advocate for better gender inclusion and global expansion of grassroots racing programs.
11. A Global Motorsport Figure: The Unity Factor
Sainz isn’t just a European motorsport hero—he’s beloved across continents. His rally victories in Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East have given him global credibility. Unlike leaders who focus on F1 alone, Sainz could bridge gaps between factions, uniting drift, rally, touring, and open-wheel racing under one progressive umbrella.
12. Sainz on Safety, Sustainability, and Stewardship
Three S’s seem to dominate Sainz’s vision: safety, sustainability, and stewardship. He has consistently championed driver safety technologies, even supporting helmets with better HANS integration during his time with Audi. He’s also been vocal about reducing motorsport’s environmental footprint, making him an ideal candidate for the FIA’s push toward electric and hybrid racing.
13. The FIA’s Need for a Technical Voice
One of the loudest criticisms of the current FIA administration is the lack of technical clarity. Rule changes seem abrupt, stewarding decisions lack consistency, and innovation is stalling. Sainz, as someone who understands cars inside and out, could reintroduce rational thinking and clear technical guidelines that drivers and teams desperately crave.
14. Public and Fan Reactions: Hope or Hesitation?
Fans on forums, Reddit threads, and X (formerly Twitter) have been largely positive about a potential Sainz presidency. Many admire his humility, experience, and no-nonsense demeanor. However, some are cautious. “Racing is different from ruling,” one fan noted. Still, there’s palpable excitement—a sense that a true racer could finally lead the racers.
15. Conclusion: Could Carlos Sainz Be the Right Driver for FIA’s Future?
Carlos Sainz Sr. isn’t just a candidate—he’s a statement. His possible election could realign the FIA with its original purpose: serving all motorsport, not just the elite few. He brings wisdom, balance, and credibility that few others can match. Whether you know him as “El Matador” or simply as Carlos Jr.’s dad, one thing is clear—Carlos Sainz FIA president has a nice ring to it.
And as the motorsport world watches, the question shifts from “Will he run?” to “Can he win?”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Carlos Sainz Sr. and why is he a candidate for FIA President?
Carlos Sainz Sr. is a two-time World Rally Champion and three-time Dakar Rally winner. His extensive racing background and recent advisory roles make him a strong contender for the 2025 FIA presidency.
2. What are Carlos Sainz’s plans if he becomes FIA President?
He aims to improve unity across motorsport disciplines, push for sustainable innovation, reform regulations, and rebuild trust within the FIA.
3. Why is Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s presidency controversial?
Ben Sulayem has faced criticism for poor communication, governance issues, and strained relationships with F1 teams and other stakeholders.
4. How is the FIA President elected?
The FIA President is elected through votes by over 240 motorsport clubs worldwide. Candidates must declare nominations and campaign globally.
5. What makes Carlos Sainz different from other potential candidates?
His hands-on experience in motorsport, wide global appeal, and technical understanding of racing set him apart from more administrative or F1-only candidates.
