Tim Mayer withdrew from the presidential election.

      We wrote that, for a number of formal reasons, the election for FIA president would be uncontested – presidential candidate Tim Mayer held a press conference about this today, at which he withdrew his candidacy.

      Tim Mayer presented to those gathered a report critically assessing the situation in the FIA, prepared jointly with Dr. Gerarart, an expert on effective governance in sport.

      Key findings from Tim Mayer’s report

      A presidency with near-total control

      The governance system depends on the individual holding the office rather than the institution. When power is so centralized, personal judgment replaces collective responsibility.

      Democracy without choice

      The FIA holds an election, but not a contest of candidates. Such a system ensures continuity of leadership rather than democratic renewal, leaving members with the right to vote but not to choose.

      Oversight subordinated to the leader

      Oversight functions exist mainly to demonstrate compliance with rules rather than to enforce them. They create an appearance of control while strengthening executive power.

      Transparency that conceals the truth

      Transparency only applies to information that can be safely shared.

      Accountability without enforcement

      Accountability remains procedural rather than practical. Rules are proclaimed but rarely applied.

      Noble aims as a cover

      Social responsibility functions more as a public message than as a management principle. Without independent evaluation or sustained investment, these initiatives cannot compensate for ethical shortcomings.

      Global ranking

      The governance score for the FIA is 45% compared with the FEI (83%) and FIFA (61%). Compared with similar organizations, the FIA shows adequate results in rule-making but poor results in their implementation.

      Power without checks and balances

      Systems based on personal merits always fail. Concentration of power delivers speed but not security. It leads to crisis when truth is lost.

      A real and present threat to the organization’s survival

      The current model replaces stability with control. Any blow to governance — financial, legal, or reputational — can instantly undermine the federation’s legitimacy.

      Pressure for reform will come from outside

      The balance of power in the FIA may change under external pressure. If it does not establish its own internal constraints, its members and sponsors will be obliged, legally and reputationally, to use theirs.