Carlos Sainz expressed his mixed emotions after his father, Carlos Sainz Sr, announced he would not pursue a bid for the FIA presidency later this year. While Sainz, currently driving for Williams, is not personally upset by his father’s decision, he acknowledged that many within the motorsport world had hoped to see Sainz Sr take on the leadership role.
Background on Carlos Sainz Sr’s Potential Candidacy
Rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr had been considering challenging the current FIA president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, although he never made a formal announcement. The speculation ended when Sainz Sr released a statement clarifying that the timing and circumstances were not suitable for launching a campaign, especially as it would interfere with his rallying commitments. He said,
“the present circumstances are not ideal to set the grounds for my candidacy,”
explaining his decision to step back.
Carlos Sainz’s Personal and Professional Take on the Situation
When questioned by media outlets including PlanetF1.com about whether he felt disappointed by the development, Carlos Sainz responded,
“As his son, no. As a motorsport fan, yes.”
He elaborated on the complexities involved, stating,
“I think many motorsport people would have liked to see my dad giving it a go and seeing what he could have done for the sport, but as his son, and after evaluating a bit also with him, all the things he had to get involved with and [would] have to take care of, to confirm and to have any possibility of running for that presidency, I think I understand why he’s not doing it and why he’s letting it go and focusing on his own stuff.”
Prospects of a Future Presidency Bid from Carlos Sainz Sr
Although this year’s bid is off the table, Carlos Sainz suggested that the possibility of a future presidential run by his father remains open. He believes the current environment made it the most appropriate time for Carlos Sainz Sr to attempt a bid. Sainz said, “Never say never,” regarding his father’s potential candidacy down the line.
He added,
“I think the ideal time was now, given the state of the situation that everything is in, I think it was the ideal moment for him to go in and try to have a positive effect.”
However, he expressed uncertainty about whether the conditions would be right in the coming years, stating,
“I don’t know if that will be ideal in four or eight years’ time. I’ll never say never, but right now, for sure, he’s not interested anymore.”
Implications for the FIA and Motorsport Leadership
Carlos Sainz Sr’s withdrawal leaves Mohammed Ben Sulayem positioned to continue his presidency, which many expect to proceed without strong opposition. Sainz’s comments highlight the challenges involved in balancing leadership ambitions with personal and professional commitments. The upcoming FIA term will determine how the organization navigates its path forward, especially given the interest from seasoned motorsport figures like Carlos Sainz Sr.