The FIA has voted to eliminate term limits for its presidency, a move supported by more than 90% of member clubs. This decision, proposed by current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, removes the previous cap of three four-year terms. The vote took place during a general assembly in Macau on Thursday.
While an official confirmation from the organization is pending, sources indicate the result was 90.71% in favor. At 64 years old, Ben Sulayem can now remain in his position past the original 12-year ceiling. Reports suggest he may also seek to remove the current age limit of 70, potentially aiming for a presidency for life.
The FIA claims the change creates consistency across its various bodies and senates. However, the move has drawn criticism. Former FIA vice-president for sport Robert Reid argued that term limits, while not perfect, serve as a vital mechanism for institutional renewal. He warned that the new eligibility requirements for presidential candidates could function as a barrier to potential opposition.
Alongside the term limit change, the FIA has tightened election rules. Candidates must now prove they have sufficient experience within the organization and submit their vice-presidential teams 100 days before an election, up from the previous 49-day window. These adjustments arrive amid ongoing scrutiny regarding the organization’s governance, including a pending lawsuit from a previous candidate regarding the fairness of election procedures.