The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) is facing another major leadership setback. Robert Reid, its Deputy President for Sport, resigned this week, citing a “breakdown in governance standards” and key decisions made without proper process. His departure highlights growing unrest within the organization and adds to a series of high-profile exits under current FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. With pressure building and elections looming in December, the future direction of the FIA is now under close scrutiny.
Leadership Shakeup Deepens FIA Crisis
Robert Reid’s resignation is the latest in a string of departures from the FIA’s senior ranks. In his public statement, Reid stressed the need for leadership that reflects core values of accountability, transparency, and member-driven decision-making.
“Motorsport deserves leadership that is accountable, transparent and member-driven. I can no longer remain part of a system that does not reflect those values,” he said.
Reid’s decision follows a warning letter from Motorsport UK chair David Richards, who voiced concern over what he called an increasing centralisation of power under President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
Former FIA CEO Natalie Robyn, who resigned in 2024, commented that Reid’s departure is “further evidence of serious internal issues.”
Wave of Resignations and Growing Criticism
The FIA has seen several senior officials step down in recent months. Among them:
-
Natalie Robyn, former CEO
-
Tim Goss, former technical director
-
Steve Nielsen, sporting director
-
Deborah Mayer, head of the FIA Women in Motorsport Commission
Each exit has intensified public and internal pressure on Ben Sulayem’s leadership. The president’s current term ends in December 2025, and he is expected to seek re-election.
Driver and Industry Reactions
The mood within the paddock also reflects unease. Formula 1 driver George Russell summed up the growing discontent, saying:
“Every time there’s news from that side of the sport, it’s no surprise anymore.”
The comments come as the FIA continues to draw criticism over several issues tied to its governance and public image.
Controversies During Ben Sulayem’s Presidency
Ben Sulayem has been at the centre of multiple controversies during his time as president. These include:
-
Efforts to limit driver expression, such as bans on jewellery and public political statements
-
A conflict of interest investigation involving Susie Wolff, later dropped, which led to legal action
-
Allegations of interference in race decisions
-
Tensions with Formula 1’s commercial rights holders, Liberty Media
These incidents have weakened trust in the FIA’s leadership and drawn attention to the structure and transparency of its internal decision-making.
FIA Defends Its Governance
Despite the growing criticism, the FIA issued a brief statement thanking Reid for his service. The organization also stated it “has robust corporate governance policies” in place to guide its operations.
However, observers say the gap between policy and practice appears to be widening. Analysts warn that the departure of a respected figure like Reid could affect the FIA’s reputation, especially as it seeks to maintain good relations with race organizers, teams, and sponsors.
What’s Next for FIA Leadership?
With elections just months away, questions now surround Ben Sulayem’s ability to retain support. Critics say reform is urgently needed to restore trust among FIA members and the motorsport community.
The situation has drawn interest not only from within Formula 1 but across all motorsport disciplines governed by the FIA. Many are watching to see whether a new leadership approach will emerge—or whether more resignations will follow.
Robert Reid’s resignation marks a turning point in what has become an ongoing leadership crisis at the FIA. With top officials leaving and key stakeholders voicing concern, the spotlight is now firmly on FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and the direction of the sport’s global governing body. As the election nears, calls for transparency and reform grow louder across the motorsport world.