Personal attack by rivals Ben Sulayem leaves FIA president unfazed: 'Let him talk'
Mohammed Ben Sulayem has served as president of the FIA since 2021. As the governing body of world motorsports, the FIA frequently comes under criticism, and Ben Sulayem himself is often targeted. With the upcoming presidential elections approaching, the Emirati addressed these issues and explained how his competitor's remarks affect him.
The FIA has regularly been the subject of criticism. Recently, the organisation faced backlash after the Belgian Grand Prix, when the race start was delayed due to rain. As president, Ben Sulayem is often a target. Earlier this year, the Emirati even received a personal attack from his challenger for the FIA presidency, Tim Mayer.
"It is regularly claimed that I have developed a thick skin and let everything slide off me. That is indeed the case. The media do not affect me. I do not read everything, only the important matters," Ben Sulayem started in a conversation with Formule1.nl.
When asked about the critical remarks Mayer directed at the FIA president, Ben Sulayem admitted that he had noticed them. He responded by saying he felt sorry for people who make such statements and who no longer have a relationship with the FIA.
“I would say, give it a try and see if there's any truth in it. Only the current FIA staff have a say. Mayer worked as a steward, but that doesn't make you an FIA insider or member. Members form the FIA. So feel free to talk to them, I don't feel the need to defend myself or campaign in this way. I have other things to do. Mayer can say what he wants,” said the FIA president.
Mayer's attack on Ben Sulayem
Before the British Grand Prix, Tim Mayer held a press conference where he announced his candidacy for FIA president. An attack on Ben Sulayem followed while he declared his candidacy. “Instead of reform, we've seen performance. Behind the stagecraft, we've been left with the illusion of progress and the illusion of leadership, while the most senior team he appointed has departed.” The American said at the press conference where GPblog was present.
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