Carlos Sainz explains ‘disappointment’ over father’s FIA presidency withdrawal

Carlos Sainz has admitted he is disappointed “as a motorsport fan” that his father ruled out a bid for the FIA presidency.

Having voiced interest in challenging Mohammed Ben Sulayem for the position earlier this year ahead of December's election, Sainz Sr recently announced he would not pursue the role.

Ben Sulayem is yet to see a rival party launch an official bid in an attempt to deny his re-election in six months' time.

When asked if he was disappointed over his father's decision, Sainz told media including RacingNews365: “As his son? No. As a motorsport fan, yes.

“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 with him, all the things he had to get involved with and have to take care of 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.

Ben Sulayem's presidency has contained several controversies, including high-profile exits and frustrations from drivers over restrictions regarding expressing themselves during a race weekend.

Sainz suggested it was the right time for someone to offer a challenge to Ben Sulayem at the helm of the FIA.

“Never, say never,” Sainz replied when asked if his father could revisit a bid in the future. “I think the ideal time was now, given the state of the situation that everything is seen.

“I think it was the ideal moment for him to go in and try to have a positive effect. I don't know if that will be ideal in four or eight years' time.

“Never seen ever, but right now, for sure, he's not interested anymore.”