Senior FIA figure resigns in sharp criticism of Ben Sulayem

The FIA's deputy president for sport, Robert Reid, has resigned, sharply criticising president Mohammed Ben Sulayem in his resignation letter.

Reid, rally co-driver to 2001 World Rally champion Richard Burns, and who stood alongside Ben Sulayem, has elected to resign over what he perceives to be a "fundamental breakdown in governance standards within motorsport’s global governing body" as Ben Sulayem's presidency has been hit with another blow. 

Under his leadership, several senior figures have departed the governing body, including CEO Natalie Robyn, whilst former F1 race director Niels Wittich was removed suddenly just before the 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix. 

In a strongly worded statement, Reid explained his decision to quit, on the eve of the Bahrain Grand Prix. 

"When I took on this role, it was to serve the FIA's members, not to serve power," he explained.

"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.

"I took on this role to help deliver greater transparency, stronger governance and more collaborative leadership. 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 and 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's resignation comes after Motorsport UK chairman David Richards penned an open letter, accusing Ben Sulayem of a 'power grab' after the FIA banned him from a World Motor Sport Council meeting following his refusal to sign a further NDA on top of what he was already required to do.