Carlos Sainz addresses key concern over father's FIA president bid interest

Carlos Sainz has denied there would be a conflict of interest if his father opted to run for the role of FIA president.

Sainz Sr recently declared his interest in putting together a campaign to rival Mohammed Ben Sulayem in the presidential election later this year.

The Spaniard's "common sense" approach has been hailed by Sainz, with the 63-year-old being the first party to signal interest in bidding for the top position at the FIA.

However, it has sprouted concerns that it could create a conflict of interest with Sainz being a full-time F1 driver with Williams, not to mention his role, along with George Russell, as a director of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA).

But the four-time race winner has asserted both would take extra care to ensure it does not become an issue.

"I've been trying to think of scenarios where it could be, but I actually don't see any way how that could be seen," Sainz told media including RacingNews365.

"If anything, obviously he will be extremely careful, I will be extremely careful because the last thing that I want is my or his image or career to be damaged by that situation. 

"If anything, we would do the opposite. I don't see any conflict of interest.

"You personally know my dad or you personally know me - we are honest people, I would never ever compromise that situation in motorsport."

Sainz Sr has played a major role in his son's career to date, including his journey through F1, which commenced 10 years ago.

But with the role of FIA president having its own demands, Sainz detailed he would cut professional ties with his father if the campaign is successful.

"My dad and me, we would part ways," he added to Sky Sports F1. "He would not be my manager anymore. 

"Whoever knows my dad or me knows we would never do anything that means a conflict of interest."