The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motorsport, has voted to remove term limits for its presidency and other leadership roles. The decision was made during extraordinary general assemblies held in Macao.
This move eliminates a significant hurdle for Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who has led the FIA since 2021. He was re-elected unopposed in December for his second four-year term. Previously, a maximum of three terms was in place for the presidency.
An age limit of 70 for presidential candidates remains in effect, which could still limit future tenures unless it is also altered. Ben Sulayem will be 68 at the time of the next scheduled FIA elections in 2029. He has not publicly stated whether he intends to seek re-election.
The term limits were originally introduced in 2009 following a contentious period that marked the end of Max Mosley's 16-year presidency. Jean Todt served as president for the maximum 12 years prior to Ben Sulayem's election.
Ben Sulayem's tenure has been marked by some disagreements with Formula 1 drivers and a notable rate of staff turnover within the FIA. However, the organization has also reported financial improvements since the COVID-19 pandemic. The FIA announced an operating profit of 6.7 million euros ($7.62 million) for 2025, described as the "strongest set of financial results in a decade."
"As we look ahead, we remain focused on creating new opportunities, increasing participation, advancing innovation, and ensuring the FIA continues to grow as a strong, sustainable and trusted federation for the future," Ben Sulayem said in a statement.