FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, attending the Dakar Rally, took the opportunity to address ongoing media criticism following a tumultuous year filled with controversy. His tenure saw frequent changes within the sport’s governing body, alongside criticism over his decision to take control of the FIA’s ethics and audit committees—a move that widely faced scrutiny.
In a candid exchange with reporters, Ben Sulayem made it clear that he is unfazed by the ongoing criticism:
“Three years of critics against me. Do I care? Was I elected to listen to the media? No.”
He went on to acknowledge that while he welcomes constructive and objective criticism, he has no interest in listening to negative press.
“I like the good media, the positive media, and maybe I make a mistake, and you can come and criticise me in an objective way.”
However, the FIA president’s comments came with a pointed rebuke, as he suggested that the media has been unfair in its treatment of him. His remarks also took an unexpected turn when he raised the issue of sponsorship for the British Grand Prix.
When asked about the media’s coverage of him, Ben Sulayem responded:
“Unfair! But the world is unfair. Saudi Arabia has reinvested a lot. You look at some of the British media and they go against Saudi Arabia or me.”
He went on to point out that the British Grand Prix is no longer solely associated with its historic identity, suggesting that the influence of sponsorship money has changed the race’s identity.
“Please, you remove the budget, you remove the money,” he said, referencing the Qatar Airways sponsorship of the British Grand Prix.
Ben Sulayem’s comments underline the increasing influence of oil-rich nations in motorsport, particularly as they secure title sponsorships for major events like the British Grand Prix. This shift, however, has not been without its critics, with some fans and traditionalists expressing disappointment over the changing landscape of the sport.
As discussions surrounding financial influence in Formula 1 continue, Ben Sulayem’s remarks reflect the delicate balance between sponsorship deals and maintaining the integrity of the sport’s historic identity.
