FIA responds after latest high-profile resignation

15:58, 10 Apr

Updated: 16:15, 10 Apr

byEwan Gale

The FIA has given a response after deputy president for sport Robert Reid tendered his resignation.

The Briton's depature is the latest in a long list of senior FIA personnel to leave under the presidency of Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who is coming under increasing scrutiny in the year the governing body will elect the next president to serve office.

Ben Sulayem is currently unopposed for re-election.

Reid's resignation came in the face of a "lack of standards" and in his statement, he said: "I took on this role to help deliver greater transparency, stronger governance, and more collaborative leadership.

"Over time, those principles have been increasingly set aside and I can no longer, in good faith, remain part of a system that no longer reflects them. Stepping away was not easy, however staying would have meant compromising what I believe in.

"This is about principles, not politics. Motorsport deserves leadership rooted in integrity, accountability, and respect for process. That's the minimum standard we should all expect, and demand."

Reid also attested to "growing alarm over critical decisions being made without due process or proper consultation" and he added: "When I took on this role, it was to serve the FIA's members, not to serve power.

"Over time, I have witnessed a steady erosion of the principles we promised to uphold. Decisions are being made behind closed doors, bypassing the very structures and people the FIA exists to present."

FIA statement issued

In response to Reid's resignation, an FIA spokesperson issued a short statement which read: “The FIA is grateful for Robert Reid’s contribution to the FIA, and to motor sport more widely.

“The FIA has exceptionally robust corporate governance policies which guide our operations and ensure our rules, practices and processes are adhered to.  

“The FIA World Rallycross Championship is a hugely popular sport. In recent years, World and European Rallycross events have been watched by a growing audience of over 30 million viewers spanning over 100 countries.

“The FIA has directly invested into the Championship for the benefit of fans, teams, and FIA Member Clubs. This investment is in line with the FIA's commitment to double participation in motor sport globally.”