AD
In a powerful show of confidence, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), has secured overwhelming support from motorsport federations across the Americas as he seeks re-election for a second four-year term.
The Emirati motorsport icon, who announced his candidacy earlier this month, received formal endorsements from an impressive coalition of 36 automotive clubs spanning North and South America. Regional vice-presidents joined forces to praise his transformative leadership since taking office in December 2021.
Financial documents reveal how Ben Sulayem engineered what supporters call "the great FIA turnaround," rescuing the governing body from what was described as "catastrophic" economic conditions inherited from predecessor Jean Todt's administration.
"We are all acutely aware of the dire financial situation you confronted upon taking office," stated the joint endorsement letter. "Your immediate strategic interventions not only stabilized our organization but positioned it for unprecedented growth."
The letter highlights how Ben Sulayem's administration simultaneously implemented professional management systems while achieving financial recovery - a dual accomplishment praised as "extraordinary" given the compressed timeline.
Club presidents particularly noted the president's hands-on engagement style: "We've personally experienced your team's member-focused approach that values every federation equally - this inclusive philosophy has fundamentally changed our relationship with headquarters."
Beyond fiscal management, supporters emphasized how the former rally champion (with fourteen Middle East championship titles) has elevated FIA's global profile in both competitive motorsports and automotive innovation sectors.
"The strength and reputation of our federation have demonstrably grown under your guidance," continued the endorsement. "You've successfully repositioned FIA as thought leaders across mobility solutions while maintaining our competitive edge."Touched by this continental show of support, Ben Sulayem reaffirmed his commitment to grassroots development programs like Affordable Cross Car and Global Karting Plan - initiatives designed to democratize access to motorsports worldwide."My vision extends beyond balance sheets," said the president. "We're empowering regional development through mobility expertise while leading critical conversations about sustainable transportation ecosystems." He added: "Together we're building an FIA that inspires pride across all levels."While no formal challengers have emerged, rumors suggest potential opposition from Carlos Sainz Sr., former World Rally Champion. When questioned about possible competition by Reuters, Ben Sulayem responded with characteristic sportsmanship: "Let him stand. That is democracy."
Royal Ascot 2026: UAE's Elite Stable Godolphin Poised for Historic Campaign at Racing's Crown Jewel
The hallowed turf of Royal Ascot prepares to welcome its most illustrious visitors as the 2026 edition of the world's most prestigious racing festival kicks off on June 17th. For over three centuries, this Berkshire spectacle has represented the perfect marriage of timeless tradition and elite athletic competition - and this year witnesses one of the most formidable UAE contingents ever assembled.
Godolphin's Global Racing Saga: Triumph in America, Heartbreak at Epsom
The racing world witnessed a tale of two continents this weekend as Godolphin, the Dubai-based racing empire, experienced both jubilation and frustration in a dramatic 24-hour period that highlighted the thrilling unpredictability of thoroughbred competition. While their American superstar Sovereignty cemented his legacy with a breathtaking Belmont Stakes victory at Saratoga, across the Atlantic their European champion Ruling Court faced last-minute heartbreak when withdrawn from the Epsom Derby
J.J. Spaun's Miraculous Putt Secures Dramatic US Open Victory at Rain-Soaked Oakmont
In a finish that will be remembered for generations, J.J. Spaun conjured magic on Oakmont's treacherous 18th green, sinking an astonishing 64-and-a-half foot birdie putt to claim his maiden major championship at the rain-delayed US Open on Sunday. The 34-year-old American completed his fairytale victory with back-to-back birdies to close out a gutsy final-round 72 (+2), finishing the tournament at 1-under-par 279 - two strokes clear of Scotland's fast-charging Robert MacIntyre (68). Spaun, who
Thrilling WTC Final Highlights Test Cricket's Glory – But Format Needs Urgent Overhaul
The dramatic World Test Championship final between Australia and South Africa delivered a spectacular showcase of five-day cricket at its finest, yet the tournament's confusing structure has sparked widespread calls for reform among cricket's elite. In a nail-biting contest at Lord's that swung like a pendulum, South Africa clinched victory by five wickets just before lunch on day four. The match saw bowlers dominate early with 24 wickets falling in two days, before batsmen staged an epic comeba
Abu Dhabi to Host Thrilling 2026 F1 Season Finale as Calendar Unveiled
The excitement is building as Formula One reveals its electrifying 2026 calendar, with Abu Dhabi once again set to host the spectacular season finale that promises edge-of-the-seat action. The upcoming championship will feature an adrenaline-packed schedule of 24 races spanning five continents, culminating in what's become a tradition - the breathtaking Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit. Since becoming F1's traditional season closer in 2014, this Middle Eastern gem has delivered unforge
Pogacar Dominates Criterium du Dauphine, Sets Sights on Tour de France Glory
Slovenian cycling sensation Tadej Pogacar has sent shockwaves through the peloton with a commanding victory at the 77th Criterium du Dauphine, cementing his status as the man to beat at next month's Tour de France.
Farida P Triumphs in Thrilling UAE President's Cup Victory at Stockholm Racecourse
In a breathtaking display of speed and endurance, the magnificent Arabian mare Farida P claimed a stunning victory at the prestigious UAE President's Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses, held at Gardet Turf Racecourse in Stockholm on June 6th. The event, perfectly timed with Sweden's vibrant National Day festivities, drew an enthusiastic crowd exceeding 50,000 spectators who witnessed equestrian excellence at its finest. The race unfolded with heart-stopping drama as Farida P executed a masterful c
Scheffler Compares Golf Majors to Tennis Grand Slams: Masters vs US Open Showdown
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler has drawn fascinating parallels between golf's major championships and tennis' Grand Slam tournaments, describing how each tests different aspects of a player's game - much like how Wimbledon differs from Roland Garros. The two-time Masters champion (2022, 2024) and reigning PGA Championship winner sees this week's US Open at Oakmont as golf's equivalent of a grueling five-set clay court battle, contrasting sharply with the shotmaker's paradise of Augusta National.
Golf's Grandest Week: U.S. Open Glory, Rising Stars & Global Drama Unfold
The world of golf ignites this week with an electrifying lineup of tournaments that will captivate fans across continents. From the hallowed fairways of Oakmont to the emerging talents in Europe, seven days of unforgettable action await. Whether you crave the pressure-cooker intensity of major championship golf or prefer discovering future champions, this week delivers it all - wrapped in drama, tradition and breathtaking competition. The Ultimate Golfing Gauntlet: U.S. Open Returns to Oakmont
Golf's New Era: How LIV Golf is Reshaping the Sport Ahead of the 2026 US Open
As golf's elite prepare to battle at Oakmont for the 2026 US Open, we're witnessing a seismic shift in professional golf that began with LIV Golf's explosive debut in London four years ago. The sport stands at a crossroads, with traditional power structures being challenged like never before. The PGA Tour has been forced to respond to LIV's growing influence through bigger purses and innovative formats, yet questions remain about whether these changes go far enough. Meanwhile, LIV continues to a
Sinner Opens Up About French Open Heartbreak: "Sleepless Nights After Epic Alcaraz Final"
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has revealed the emotional toll of his grueling five-set defeat to Carlos Alcaraz in the French Open final, admitting to struggling with sleepless nights following the marathon match.
10-Year-Old Karting Sensation Atiqa Mir Breaks Barriers as Youngest AKCEL GP Academy Driver
In an inspiring development for motorsports, Dubai-based Indian karting phenomenon Atiqa Mir has shattered records by becoming the youngest driver from the Middle East to earn a coveted spot in a professional racing development program. The 10-year-old speedster has officially joined the AKCEL GP Academy, marking a historic moment for diversity in motorsport and showcasing the UAE's growing reputation as a breeding ground for world-class racing talent.
