Carlos Sainz Sr believes that “now is the right time” for him to consider running for FIA president and is gauging the support he would receive from the motorsport community. The next presidential election is set for December 12 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, with the incumbent, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, likely seeking a second term and no other candidates declared yet. Sainz, a two-time World Rally champion who won the Dakar Rally in 2024 with Audi, feels that his experience and love for the sport make this a fitting career step for him to give back.
He emphasizes his professional approach and vision to enhance the sport and the automotive industry, expressing confidence in his ability to lead effectively. Despite being the father of Williams F1 driver Carlos Sainz Jr, he assures that there would be no conflict of interest, willing to step down from any involvement with his son’s career. Sainz notes his commitment to professionalism and seriousness in his previous work as indicators of his capability to serve the role effectively based on his own beliefs and track record.
