The Emirati, who is serving his second term after being re-elected unopposed in December, is seeking to amend Article 20.10 of the FIA’s statutes. The rule currently restricts presidents to three four-year terms, whether consecutive or not.
That framework was introduced during Jean Todt’s presidency and was intended to ensure leadership turnover at the top of motorsport’s governing body. It followed earlier eras in which presidents served significantly longer periods, including Max Mosley’s 16-year tenure.
If approved, the proposal would remove any fixed cap on how long an FIA president can serve, effectively opening the door to indefinite re-election.
BBC Sport reported the change will be put forward for a vote at the next FIA General Assembly, where it is expected to be decided by member clubs.
An FIA spokesperson told BBC Sport the proposal is intended to create consistency across the organisation’s leadership structures.
“A proposal has been put forward to establish a consistent approach to tenure across all FIA bodies, similar to what currently exists for the World Councils and the Senate,” the statement read.
Secure your spot today.
“The proposal is subject to approval by the World Councils and by the General Assembly. FIA bodies retain full authority to democratically elect officeholders.”
If the change is approved, it would sit alongside wider FIA governance rules covering other senior roles, including term limits for positions such as anti-doping oversight and cost-cap administration.
Ben Sulayem’s presidency has already been marked by political tension and scrutiny, including disputes with Formula 1 drivers over conduct regulations and broader governance questions within the organisation.
The 64-year-old secured his second term unopposed last year after election rules prevented any challenger from completing the required nomination process, which includes assembling vice-presidents from across FIA regions. As a result, he entered the new term without a contested vote.
Potential challengers, including former F1 steward Tim Mayer, driver Laura Villars and journalist Virginie Philippot, were unable to progress to the ballot stage. Villars has since launched legal action against the FIA over the electoral process.
The term limit proposal will be put to a vote at the FIA General Assembly next month.
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