FIA chief dismisses critics: 'Fans are not necessary for us'

      "The FIA encompasses more than just Formula 1"

      FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has stated that he is unconcerned with the popularity of his leadership as he continues to face criticism following his re-election for a second term. The divisive Emirati has endured ongoing backlash during his presidency due to governance controversies, political tensions within the FIA, and frequent disputes with Formula 1 stakeholders. However, in an interview with Forbes, Ben Sulayem asserted that the governing body's purpose is not to garner public favor. "People don’t understand the FIA," he remarked.

      "The FIA is a federation with 245 members across 149 countries. The FIA is not just about Formula 1." Ben Sulayem emphasized that Formula 1 is merely a segment of a much larger organization that oversees global motorsport and mobility. "Formula 1 is a world championship under the FIA," he explained. "We have karting, rallying, cross-country, GT, Formula E, and numerous other championships."

      Ben Sulayem contended that the FIA’s primary duty is to govern impartially, even if this stance does not endear the organization to fans. "What’s our mission? To be fair to everyone and to do what’s best for the sport," he stated. "You know, I won’t have - I will never gain fans." He acknowledged that criticism often follows the decisions made by stewards.

      "When our referees, or stewards, impose a 5-second penalty due to a driver's mistake, that’s the ruling," he explained. "And then there are people who get upset." Nonetheless, he made it clear that popularity holds no significance for the FIA. "We’re not here to attract fans; we’re here to be equitable to everyone," he stated. "We don’t require fans. We seek respect, fairness, and transparency."

      Ben Sulayem also vigorously defended the FIA’s authority over Formula 1 amid ongoing power struggles with Liberty Media and various teams. "If Formula 1 goes, and the FIA goes, then Formula 1 disappears with it," he commented. "It’s very straightforward. No FIA, no Formula 1." He pointed out that while commercial rights holders, teams, and presidents may change, the FIA remains constant. "The promoters might change," Ben Sulayem noted. "Teams come and go, drivers come and go. Presidents change, but the FIA will always be there."

      "You can remove me, and there will still be Formula 1. You remove the FIA, and there’s no Formula 1. It’s that simple."