Is Tim Mayer Ready to Challenge for FIA Presidency?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Tim Mayer is running for FIA president in December.
- He aims to enhance governance for the motorsport community.
- Mayer has over 15 years of experience in the field.
- His focus includes sustainability and accessibility.
- He seeks to present a viable alternative to current leadership.
New Delhi, July 4 (NationPress) American motorsport official Tim Mayer has officially announced his candidacy for the presidency of the FIA — the global governing body for motorsport — in the upcoming elections this December.
The 59-year-old Mayer will face off against the current president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who has held the position since December 2021.
This move from Mayer comes less than a year after he was dismissed as a Formula 1 steward by Ben Sulayem.
Addressing BBC Sport, Mayer clarified that his motivations for running are not personal. “It’s not personal,” he stated. “But I felt the FIA could do better for the member clubs and the motorsport community.”
With over 15 years of experience as an F1 race steward and leadership roles in prominent US championships including Indycar, IMSA, and the American Le Mans Series, Mayer asserts that he possesses the necessary experience. “I can bring value to our stakeholders, whether they are small clubs in under-served regions or at the Formula 1 track. I'm equally comfortable in both environments,” he explained.
Mayer further emphasized his expanded focus beyond traditional motorsport. “While I come from a motorsport background, I've dedicated the last six months to learning about the mobility sector and the associated opportunities. To me, that's the larger chance — to make a global impact on sustainability, accessibility, and safety worldwide,” he remarked.
His dismissal as an F1 steward occurred after representing the Circuit of the Americas in a “right of review” hearing concerning a penalty for a crowd invasion at the conclusion of the US Grand Prix. He disclosed to BBC Sport that Ben Sulayem interpreted part of that hearing as a personal affront.
Regarding his prospects in the forthcoming election, Mayer stated: “The aim is to connect with the clubs and show them that there is a credible alternative.”