breaking: Ben Sulayem Secures Second FIA term; Concorde Agreement Extends Through 2030
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In a decisive gathering in Tashkent, Mohammed Ben Sulayem has secured a second four-year mandate to lead the FIA, the sport’s global governing body.The Emirati administrator was elected unopposed,extending his leadership through 2029 and signaling continuity at the top of world motorsport.
After the vote, Ben Sulayem thanked FIA members for their overwhelming support, stressing that the federation has faced challenges but remains stronger when united. He pledged ongoing commitments to governance, mobility initiatives, and support for member clubs across all regions.
Parallel to the leadership vote, Formula One’s Concorde Agreement-detailing the sport’s regulatory framework, commercial terms, and governance structure-was finalized to run through 2030. The pact aims to bolster race direction, stewarding, and technical oversight while ensuring long-term stability for the FIA, Formula One, and the 11 teams involved.
Formula One chief Stefano Domenicali praised the agreement as a milestone in the sport’s 75-year history, emphasizing collaboration with the FIA and the teams to foster lasting growth worldwide.
On the political front, Laura Villars‘ legal challenge to the FIA election is moving toward court, with a hearing scheduled for 16 February 2026. The federation’s rules require a vice-president from each of six global regions, and Fabiana Ecclestone-Bernie Ecclestone’s wife-remains the sole regional candidate from South America after Tim Mayer abandoned his bid.
Ben Sulayem’s tenure has not been without controversy, including disputes with drivers over jewelry worn in cockpits and penalties for outspoken conduct. In April, deputy president for sport Robert Reid resigned, accusing the federation of a governance breakdown and calling for reforms.
The ninth edition of the Concorde Agreement solidifies the long-term future of the FIA Formula One World Championship and provides a framework for ongoing modernization across regulatory, technological, and operational areas. Both FIA and Formula One leadership stress continued collaboration to advance the sport globally.
As the sport moves forward, industry observers will watch how governance reforms and the Concorde framework influence safety, competition, and the broader ecosystem of teams, suppliers, and fans.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Key Fact | Summary |
|---|---|
| FIA Presidency | Mohammed Ben Sulayem re-elected unopposed; term through 2029 |
| Concorde Agreement | Finalised through 2030; aims to strengthen race direction, stewarding, and governance |
| Legal Challenge | Laura Villars to challenge FIA election; hearing set for 16 February 2026 |
| Regional Candidate | fabiana Ecclestone remains sole South American candidate; Tim Mayer withdrew |
| Notable Controversies | Jewellery regulations debate; fines for swearing; governance concerns cited by deputy president |
Evergreen Insights
- The reappointment of Ben Sulayem signals expectations of continuity in FIA governance, with a clear emphasis on modernization and global reach.
- The Concorde Agreement’s extension through 2030 provides stability for the sport’s regulatory and commercial architecture, enabling sustained investment in safety, technology, and race operations.
- Ongoing legal challenges and questions over governance highlight the importance of clear processes as Formula One and the FIA navigate a rapidly evolving global audience.
What do you think this means for the governance of global motorsport? Do you expect faster reforms in race direction and safety oversight? Share your thoughts below.
How will the Concorde Agreement influence your view of Formula One’s long-term growth and regional portrayal?
What is the FIA’s 2030 Concorde deal and how does it relate to the legal dispute over the election process?
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