FIA boss planning to end age limits for office holders

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem is planning to end age limits for office holders in motorsport's governing body. The move, which has been proposed for approval at next month's FIA General Assembly, comes six months after Ben Sulayem ended term limits for those holding leadership posts across the organisation. The FIA statutes currently rule out anyone over the age of 75 from standing as part of a presidential team. Critics say it is the latest step by Ben Sulayem as he seeks to ensure he can remain FIA president for life. The proposal to be put forward to the General Assembly, which has been seen by BBC Sport, argues that "age limits could restrict the number of qualified candidates eligible for election by the competent bodies, in particular individuals whose experience and expertise could be of benefit to the FIA".

An age limit of 70 was imposed in 2023, during Ben Sulayem's first presidential term. It was a tactic to prevent MotorsportUK boss David Richards from being able to oppose Ben Sulayem at the 2025 presidential election. At the time, Ben Sulayem, who is 64, argued that this would "enhance governance and accountability within the organisation". The FIA added that the move to introduce an age limit "reflected the FIA's commitment to maintaining high standards in its leadership and governance