Russell happy with competition: 'It brings out the best in people'

At Silverstone, Tim Mayer announced that he will challenge Mohammed Ben Sulayem in the elections for FIA presidency. Prior to the announcement, there were already rumours in the paddock that someone would challenge the current president. George Russell was asked on the Thursday before the British Grand Prix what he would think if someone were to challenge Ben Sulayem.

Since December 2021, Ben Sulayem has been the president of the FIA. Possibly this will change, with the elections in December, this year. Initially, it seemed that Carlos Sainz Sr. would stand for election. Eventually, the Spaniard withdrew, leaving no challengers for the FIA presidency for a while.

This changed during the British Grand Prix weekend. Tim Mayer announced that he was standing for election for the FIA presidency. He immediately shared his motivation for his decision.

When it was unclear who would stand for election, Russell, as director of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association, was asked whether he was open to competition for Ben Sulayem.

He responded: “I think in life, competition is always good because it brings out the best in people. It's something we've been vocal about in the past. It's probably got a little bit too much airtime in the past.”

The Brit continued: “Things have seemingly been moving in a better direction, which I think is just good news for everyone involved in the sport. But at the end of the day, if there are two people fighting for one position, you bring your A-game. It’s a bit like a driver’s contract, I guess!"

For the time being, aside from Mayer and Ben Sulayem, no other candidates have put themselves forward. Other challengers have until 24th October to register.