Ben Sulayem wants to abolish all limits to remain FIA president indefinitely

GPblog understands that the agenda for the upcoming General Assembly in Macau includes not only the proposal to remove the maximum of three terms for an FIA president (a person can start a full final term only if they are under 70 years old). There will likely be a second, separate vote on whether all current restrictions for the sitting president can be lifted. That would concern both the number of terms and the removal of the age limit.

If the second proposal receives enough votes, the age cap of seventy would no longer apply to him. In that case, on paper, Ben Sulayem could remain president for as long as he wishes and is, of course, elected; potentially serving a fourth term and being elected in his seventies or beyond.

It was already expected that the first proposal would receive enough votes, but a second one would be a belt-and-braces approach. Each proposal would be voted on separately, in the hope that at least one secures a majority.

Ben Sulayem was re-elected as FIA president at the end of 2025 after a tumultuous run-up, having succeeded Jean Todt in 2021. He could already pursue a third term, as that is the current maximum stated in the statutes. At the time of a third election, the Emirati would be 69, after which he could potentially remain for another four years. The proposed statutory changes would clear the way for him for being then re-elected for a potential fourth term.

It’s understandable that Ben Sulayem would propose the changes this year. After all, the Emirati is currently popular with many federations and FIA members, which greatly increases the chances of success in the vote. It’s not a given that in, say, two or three years he would be able to push through such proposals as easily.

GPblog has requested comment from two FIA spokespersons, but the motorsport federation has yet to respond.