The FIA president persists in advocating for the return of V8 engines in F1.
"Hopefully, we will have something by 2029."
Mohammed Ben Sulayem has intensified his campaign for re-election as president of Formula 1’s governing body. During the British GP weekend, where the controversial FIA leader was present, a competing presidential bid was launched by ousted former F1 steward Tim Mayer. Mayer, the offspring of renowned former McLaren team principal Teddy Mayer, will challenge Ben Sulayem in the elections set for mid-December in Uzbekistan. He commenced his campaign with a scathing critique of Ben Sulayem.
"The president assumed office four years ago with promising ideas," Mayer stated, "but ultimately, what we witnessed was a concentration of power. I’m disappointed in Mohammed. His leadership qualities are lacking."
When asked for his response, Ben Sulayem remarked, "I pity individuals who express such sentiments and who have no ongoing connection with the FIA. I would suggest testing the claims and observing if there's any truth to them. Inquire with those currently employed by the FIA; they are entitled to their opinions. Tim Mayer served as a steward, but that does not classify him as an FCA insider or employee. Regardless, I feel no obligation to defend myself or engage in campaigning this way. I have other priorities," he stated, as reported by the Dutch publication Formule 1.
"He can express whatever he wishes. As we say in the Arab world, 'the tongue has no bones.'" Nevertheless, the sentiment in the F1 paddock—particularly among senior team management and drivers—is that the FIA might be due for a fresh start. However, Ben Sulayem may garner some backing for his ongoing efforts to reintroduce loud, light, simple, affordable, and crowd-pleasing V8 engines to the grid, using "fully sustainable fuel."
"The teams support this initiative," said the 63-year-old. "Hopefully, we will have something in place by 2029. This is the proper direction to ensure the sport remains viable and accessible, despite the continued belief among some that there are limitless profits to be made in Formula 1."
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