FIA Votes Overwhelmingly to Abolish Term Limits for Its President

The FIA governing body approved a proposal on June 25, 2026, to end term limits for its president, passing the measure with a majority of more than 90%, according to BBC Sport. This decision removes the cap on the number of terms the head of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile can serve, allowing a president to seek reelection indefinitely.

The vote marks a significant shift in the governance of the body that regulates Formula 1 and the World Rally Championship. Under previous rules, the presidency was subject to specific term constraints designed to ensure leadership rotation within the federation.

How does the removal of FIA term limits work?

The approved proposal eliminates the existing ceiling on presidential terms. According to BBC Sport, the motion passed with overwhelming support, exceeding a 90% majority among the voting members of the governing body.

This change means that any current or future president can run for reelection as many times as they wish, provided they maintain the support of the FIA’s member organizations. The removal of these limits effectively transforms the presidency from a capped tenure into an open-ended position.

Who is affected by the FIA presidency change?

The decision directly impacts the current president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who was elected to the post in 2021. By removing the term limits on June 25, 2026, the FIA has cleared the path for Ben Sulayem to remain in power beyond the previously established constraints.

The move also alters the landscape for potential challengers. Future candidates will no longer be competing for a seat that is guaranteed to open due to term expiration. Instead, the incumbent can hold the position indefinitely, shifting the focus of leadership changes entirely to election cycles and internal political support.

Why does this change matter for sports governance?

Term limits in international sporting federations are typically implemented to prevent the consolidation of power and to encourage fresh perspectives in administration. The FIA’s decision to reverse this policy contrasts with the broader trend in global sports governance, where many organizations have moved toward stricter term limits to improve transparency and accountability.

Historically, the FIA has experienced periods of long-term leadership. For example, Max Mosley served as president from 1993 to 2009. The subsequent introduction of tighter governance structures was intended to avoid the risks associated with indefinite tenure, such as administrative stagnation or a lack of democratic renewal.

By removing these limits, the FIA is returning to a model where leadership stability is prioritized over mandatory rotation. The 90% majority suggests a strong internal consensus among the federation’s members that the current leadership structure should be flexible.

What happens next for the FIA?

The rule change is effective immediately following the June 25, 2026, vote. The FIA will now operate under these updated statutes for all future presidential elections.

While the vote settles the legal ability of a president to serve indefinitely, the actual duration of any term remains dependent on the electoral process. The president must still face the voting body at the end of each term to secure a new mandate.