Since assuming office in 2021, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has overseen one of the most transformative periods in the federation’s modern history. His first term has been defined by financial recovery, strategic reform and a renewed focus on accessibility, safety and global development across motorsport and mobility.
From rebuilding the FIA’s financial foundations to unlocking global access for a new generation of competitors, Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s presidency has delivered a disciplined, data-driven blueprint for the federation’s long-term future.
Below, we explore the defining reforms, strategic initiatives, and measurable outcomes that have reshaped the FIA during his first term in office.
Major Financial Turnaround
One of the most defining achievements of Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s first term has been the FIA’s decisive financial turnaround. In 2021, the federation entered a period of renewal carrying a €24 million operating loss inherited from the previous administration.
By 2024, the FIA had reversed that trajectory entirely, delivering a €4.7 million operating profit alongside a record €182 million turnover, marking the organisation’s strongest financial position in almost a decade and a clear signal of restored institutional health.
This transformation was driven by a comprehensive overhaul of financial governance, including enhanced procurement controls, increased automation, the introduction of internal quarterly reporting, and the establishment of a robust financial steering model at senior management level. Together, these measures delivered a more effective resource allocation, enabling the FIA to reinvest strategically across both motorsport and mobility while securing long-term stability and transparency for its global operations.
Delivering a Stronger Future for Motorsport
Under Ben Sulayem’s leadership, the FIA prioritised sustainable growth across all levels of competition. In 2022, the federation launched the FIA Affordable Cross Car Programme, aimed at reducing costs and lowering barriers to entry in off-road motorsport, particularly for young drivers and emerging markets.
At the elite level, the FIA secured a 10-year extension for the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, reinforcing long-term confidence in electric single-seater racing and its role in sustainable motorsport innovation.
In 2023, the FIA introduced Motor Sport in a Box, a comprehensive development toolkit providing Member Clubs with technical regulations, standardised tools and materials, operational guidance, and digital resources to help launch and grow championships worldwide, minimising barriers and fostering greater accessibility and participation.
Increasing Mobility Accessibility
Grassroots participation has been a cornerstone of the FIA’s strategy. The launch of the FIA Global Karting Plan in 2024, followed by the FIA Karting Arrive and Drive World Cup in 2025, reshaped the entry point into competitive karting by offering a fully standardised, cost-controlled international event.
As a result of these initiatives, global karting entries increased by 68%, highlighting renewed accessibility and interest in entry-level motorsport. The Arrive and Drive World Cup, demonstrated how simplified formats and controlled costs can broaden participation while maintaining sporting integrity.
Increased FIA Member Club Funding
Investment in Member Clubs has risen significantly during this period. In 2021, FIA development grants stood at €5.5 million. By 2025, this figure increased to €8 million, supported by the creation of a €1.5 million President’s Development Fund.
These funds have been allocated to infrastructure, training, sustainability projects and grassroots programmes, strengthening the FIA’s global network and ensuring Member Clubs remain central to the federation’s long-term strategy.
Stronger FIA Branding and Commercial Growth
The FIA’s commercial and brand positioning also underwent a major shift. Partnership revenue grew from €0.8 million in 2021 to over €4 million following the launch of the FIA Global Partner Programme in 2025.
This programme established a unified commercial platform across motorsport and mobility, attracting long-term global partners and reinforcing the FIA’s institutional identity on the world stage.
FIA Strategy and Communications Transformation
A renewed communications strategy delivered unprecedented visibility for the federation. In 2025, the FIA achieved record global media coverage, with an estimated $420 million media value, reflecting stronger storytelling, clearer messaging and a more proactive international media presence.
This shift positioned the FIA not only as a regulator, but as a global authority shaping the future of sport, safety and mobility.
Significant Advances in Safety
Safety innovation remained a core priority. In the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship, the introduction of a new seat attenuator resulted in a 50% reduction in forces during severe impacts, setting new benchmarks for off-road safety.
In the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, a newly developed steering damper delivered a 40% reduction in force, significantly reducing the risk of hand and wrist injuries and reinforcing the FIA’s data-led approach to driver protection.
A Knowledge-Led Federation
The FIA’s transformation extended into education and research through the expansion of FIA University. The programme now includes seven dedicated university professors, more than 60 global education programmes, and cutting-edge research initiatives.
These efforts equip Member Clubs with tools to train officials, educate young drivers and improve road safety, reinforcing the FIA’s role as a knowledge-driven governing body.
A Defining First Term
Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s first term has fundamentally redefined the FIA’s foundations. With governance strengthened, global influence expanded, and renewed confidence across both motorsport and mobility, the federation now steps into its next chapter as a more resilient, forward-looking institution strategically positioned for sustainable growth, innovation, and enduring relevance on the world stage.
