P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Carlos Sainz’s declaration he could run for the FIA presidency left one of F1’s most prominent drivers “quite surprised” – but there seems to be plenty of support for his potential bid
The current Formula 1 grid is facing an unusual situation where Carlos Sainz Sr, the father of one of the drivers, is contemplating running for the FIA presidency.
Following the Miami Grand Prix, it was revealed that Sainz Sr is considering challenging Mohammed Ben Sulayem for the FIA presidency. Many leading drivers, including his son, were asked about their opinions on Sainz’s potential presidential campaign.
Grand Prix Drivers’ Association director George Russell spoke highly of Sainz Sr, praising his experience and stating that he would be a fantastic candidate for the role.
Russell dismissed concerns about a conflict of interest, highlighting that the president’s role is more behind the scenes and that the Sainz duo’s combined knowledge could benefit the sport.
There have been criticisms of recent FIA decisions, such as the Appendix B rollback on swearing, with Russell noting that the changes should never have happened in the first place.
Despite past disagreements, both Russell and Max Verstappen supported Sainz Sr’s candidacy, recognizing his respected standing in the motorsport world.
