THIS MONTH Technical Editor
Binky P. Siddayao OPPOSITE LOCK
he 12-year tenure of former top rally co-driver Jean Todt as president of motorsports’ governing body, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (F.I.A.), concludes at the end of the year. Two respectable figures, both already deeply involved with the institution, have announced their candidacy for the FIA presidency when the Frenchman steps down from the role have significant experience to bring to the job. No other candidates have signified their intentions. The FIA presidential elections will be held at the end of 2021 before the FIA General Assembly and prize giving in December. Known as the “most powerful figure in motorsport”,
T
Graham Stoker, a recognized expert in Sports Law and a long-standing member of the UK Sports Dispute Resolutions Panel, has been involved with the FIA World Motor Sport Council since 2004 and has been the FIA’s deputy president for sport since 2009. The Briton known to be close to Todt during his more than a decade incumbency, hopes to use that experience to take the Frenchman’s place. “As we face the Covid-19 pandemic together, and with the encouragement of so many of you, we intend in due time to stand as a team for election, under my leadership as presidential candidate.” Stoker announced. His only known active involvement in the sport is graduating as a driver from the
Ian Taylor Racing School and the Winfield Elf Motor Racing School in France. With a rallying career spanning three decades, Mohammed bin-Sulayem was the Middle East rally champion 14 times during his driving career and has competed in 18 rounds of the World Rally Championship and continues to have an influence within motorsport off the track. A campaign to compete against Todt ahead of the 2013 presidential elections by the 59-year-old Emirati was attempted but he withdrew later on. Bin Sulayem was the man in-charge of organizing the first Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2009. He has been vice president of the FIA since 2008, for mobility and sport.
❝
A research-based approach to develop an FIA Strategy for the development of motorsport in the Middle East is something he may contribute and share with other FIA-member countries. A “fresh approach” within the organization has been pledged, affixing that “the FIA must encourage a culture of democratic and transparent governance”. “I want to give much back to the FIA and its amazing community, and I hope my experience in both mobility and sport as a vice president, competitor, but also a businessman and car enthusiast can add value. I am proud to lead such an experienced and passionate team that is focused on delivering what the members want and need.” Your pick!
A “fresh approach” within the organization has been pledged, affixing that “the FIA must encourage a culture of democratic and transparent governance
❞ GET IN TOUCH
✉ binkypsiddayao@gmail.com
6 AUTOCAR.COM.PH SEPTEMBER 2021
Photo by Chinmay Jade on Unsplash
THE F.I.A.’S FUTURE
