In a recent discussion in Shanghai, Ben Sulayem, the President of the FIA, expressed his satisfaction with the current state of the organization. He emphasized the progress made in terms of financial stability, highlighting that the FIA achieved positive results in its audit for the first time in its 120-year history. Ben Sulayem took over the presidency from Jean Todt in 2021 and faced significant challenges, including a substantial deficit in operational costs. However, through strategic investments and effective financial management, the deficit was reduced from over 20 million euros to less than 2.5 million euros. Ben Sulayem emphasized the importance of continuous development and strength within the FIA, as this benefits the entire world of motorsport.
In the field of motorsport and motor sports, 62-year-old Ben Sulayem, hailing from a prosperous Emirati family and possessing considerable wealth of his own, established and served as the head of the ATCUAE. This organization, similar to the FIA on a national scale, has overseen all aspects of transportation and sports in the United Arab Emirates since 2005.
During the same year, Sulayem took on the role of representative of the United Arab Emirates in the FIA, establishing a connection that eventually led him to the esteemed position of President of the FIA, responsible for international motorsport and motor sports.
For Sulayem, the Presidency holds great significance. He expressed, “It is not just a job, but a deep responsibility. I was not appointed; I was elected to give my best and make sound decisions. It may be easy to assume this role, but being a President is far from simple.”
He continued: “The biggest challenge lies in being a leader, a task that requires a different approach. Making the right decisions is crucial. Although I may make mistakes, I promptly correct them as part of my journey. I was elected to protect and promote the sport, with justice as my guiding principle,” emphasized Sulayem.
The conversation then turned to the notable occurrences that have captivated the world of Formula 1 on several occasions this year. From Lewis Hamilton’s impressive move to Ferrari, to Fernando Alonso’s contract renewal with Aston Martin, these newsworthy events have left a lasting impact.
And naturally, the possibility of Max Verstappen leaving Red Bull, a team on a winning streak, to join Mercedes, a team currently facing challenges, has sparked considerable intrigue.
“Gossip!” exclaimed Ben Sulayem. “I tell you the following, if there weren’t so many rumors… interest in Formula 1 would decrease. The media needs to generate this. Otherwise, fans wouldn’t be interested.
“Look at me as an example. The media tries to destroy me and assassinate my reputation. It’s unnecessary, but I remain strong. It’s unnecessary. When there are issues, it’s good to investigate them. But lies and fabricated rumors have no place in our sport.
“At the end of the day, justice is needed for the sport. You know what I’ve suffered in the last two years. It’s like an endless cycle every year. And what remains of these rumors and fabrications?
“I am active. Visit the FIA website. I am overwhelmed by the support of the members. People need to understand that it’s the members who elected me. Not the media, the drivers, or the Formula 1 teams.
“I say this humbly. I was not elected to worry about your opinions. I care about fulfilling the promises in the manifesto that I approved. I am more than willing to be challenged on whether I have fulfilled them or not.
“But I was judged in the court of public opinion. It wasn’t even a question. I went through six weeks of scrutiny before the ethics committee. The committee members did their job. The president is not above the law. If we don’t like our system, we improve it. But we never break it.”
As for his critics, Ben Sulayem raised the question: “Who are they? They do not have the courage and integrity to confront me. As an athlete for 40 years, I can stand tall and face you. I respect the rules. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t be here.
He added somewhat mysteriously: “I know who is behind this, but I cannot reveal it…”
Now, in the final part of his four-year term as President of the FIA, Ben Sulayem made the following assessment: “I am very proud of my position. Who do I answer to? The members of the FIA. Their response was to send letters of support. I am overwhelmed by the positive feedback from our members.
“When faced with adversity… in an arena, both the bullfighter and the spectators leave. However, the members stood by me and offered their protection. I am immensely proud of this. It must mean that I have done something commendable. I carefully examined the FIA manifesto, comparing what I promised with what we achieved. If I had not closely examined the finances, we would not have persevered. This is an extremely serious matter, as we have salaries to fulfill…”
In relation to future areas for improvement, Ben Sulayem expressed: “I aspire to improve our members’ accessibility to the FIA, promote the growth of grassroots motorsport, and expand the FIA’s influence in other regions, such as Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
“The purpose of the FIA is not to cater to the President’s desires, nor is it intended to please the promoters. The FIA exists to serve its members. Start with them. It’s a simple concept. Once you serve them, the President will be satisfied.
“Start with them. It’s a simple yet quite challenging notion,” emphasized Ben Sulayem, highlighting that his predecessors – Jean Todt, Max Mosley, and Jean Marie Balestre – were never “members of an FIA club.”
The topic of a possible second term inevitably came up, and it is clear that Ben Sulayem harbors long-term aspirations to remain in the position of President: “I am more than willing to face any challenger, if necessary. Like it or not, we must collaborate for the greater benefit of the organization. Naturally, the media thrives on conflict. What do they write about? They need something to report.
“Do I wish to continue? I will wait and assess the will of our FIA members. I will never engage in anything unethical or lead us in the wrong direction, to preserve my dignity. As for self-assessment, I am more than satisfied,” concluded Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA until the end of 2025 and, most likely, beyond.
© 2024
An exciting football game between Brazil and Argentina took place last night. The two teams faced off at Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro in a match full of excitement and twists.
Brazil started the game with a lot of intensity, putting pressure on Argentina from the first minute. Just 10 minutes in, the Brazilian forward scored a beautiful header goal, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
However, Argentina did not let themselves be discouraged and reacted quickly. At 20 minutes, the Argentine forward tied the game with a precise shot. From then on, both teams took turns controlling the match, creating good goal-scoring opportunities.
In the second half, Brazil came back strong and, at 60 minutes, scored the second goal, putting the team back in the lead. It seemed like the victory was secured, but Argentina did not give up and continued to press.
In the final minutes, Argentina was awarded a penalty and converted it, tying the game once again. The final result was 2-2, leaving both teams with one point each on the table.
Despite the draw, the game was thrilling and showcased the talent of both teams. The players gave their all on the field and provided a spectacle for the fans in the stadium and the millions of people watching the match on television.
Now, the teams are preparing for the next challenges. Brazil will face Colombia next Wednesday, while Argentina will play against Peru on the same day. The expectation is for more exciting and rivalry-filled matches.
Stay tuned for more news about soccer and don’t miss any important plays. Follow our website to stay updated on all the latest developments in the world’s most popular sport.
