Carlos Sainz Sr has revealed he is giving serious thought to launching a bid to become FIA President, saying the timing feels right after a lifetime dedicated to motorsport.
The 62-year-old Spaniard, a two-time World Rally Champion and 2024 Dakar Rally winner, is now assessing support from across the racing world before making a formal decision.
The FIA will elect its next president on December 12, 2025, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. With current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem likely to seek another term, Sainz could emerge as a high-profile challenger, though no other candidates have officially declared yet.
“There are plenty of reasons, but I have been driving for more than 40 years and this sport has given me everything,” Sainz told Motorsport.com.
“This possibility has been in my mind for some time now, not very deeply, but now I think it could be the right time in my career for me to take the step.”
Sainz said he is confident he could put together a strong leadership team and bring fresh ideas to the FIA, the global governing body for motorsport and mobility.
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“I have accumulated a lot of experience in this sport throughout the years and I’m certain I can bring new and interesting things, to strengthen and develop the sport and the automobile world,” Sainz commented.
Sainz Sr addresses concerns over son’s F1 future
A key topic surrounding his potential candidacy is whether his son, Carlos Sainz Jr, who currently drives for Williams, could create a conflict of interest. Sainz Sr moved to quash any such concerns, stressing he would step back from any involvement in his son’s racing career.
“I have my track record and people know me well enough to understand that this will not be an issue,” Sainz said. “Obviously, I will have to step down regarding my role with Carlos and his career but this is not an issue at all.
“He’s not a child anymore, he has been in F1 for a decade now and we both know that if I go ahead with this project our relationship will change, of course. The FIA is a very serious entity and there will be no conflict.”
Sainz also emphasised that his management style would be shaped by his career in the sport.
“Everybody has his own way of running, his own beliefs on what is best,” Sainz added. “I think my track record shows that when I’m committed to something I only know one way to do things, which is professionally, seriously and straightforward.”
The FIA has endured a turbulent period under Ben Sulayem’s leadership, with controversies ranging from alleged interference in race decisions to strained relationships with drivers and staff turnover. Sainz did not comment directly on his rival’s presidency but acknowledged recent instability.
“I think obviously lately there has been some controversy, but I want to concentrate on myself. I leave the judgment to others,” Sainz indicated.
“If I do [run for president] it will not be to fight anyone, it will be out of passion and love for motorsport, because I believe I can help and improve certain things.”
Sainz concluded that his background as a driver gives him a unique perspective.
“I have been on the other side of motorsport and I know how important it is to listen to everybody – drivers, teams, fans, organizers, promoters, manufacturers,” Sainz said.
“I truly think I can make that relationship much smoother and stronger. I would like to see the future of the FIA as an entity that is really appreciated and respected by everybody.”
Sainz is now expected to consult further with stakeholders before making a final decision on standing for election.
