P1racenews AI automatic summary:
FIA presidency race takes fresh twist as ex-F1 steward set to launch rival bid
An ex-F1 steward, Tim Mayer, is reportedly planning to run for presidency of the FIA later this year, potentially challenging the incumbent Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who had dismissed Mayer in 2024 following a controversial incident.
Mayer’s announcement regarding his candidacy is expected to be made public soon, possibly during a news conference near Silverstone before this weekend’s British Grand Prix.
Before officially standing as a candidate, Mayer must assemble a full team of officials and undergo scrutiny by the FIA’s nominations committee, though sources close to him express confidence in his preparations.
The potential bid by Mayer comes after previous rumors of Carlos Sainz Sr entering the race, with FIA chief Ben Sulayem facing growing pressure from within the organization and from prominent figures in the motorsport world.
This latest development suggests significant shifts in leadership dynamics within the FIA, reflecting ongoing challenges and uncertainties in the high-stakes arena of Formula 1.
