American Tim Mayer has officially declared his candidacy for the presidency of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), setting the stage for a high-stakes election against incumbent Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The announcement was made on Friday, July 4, 2025, at a press conference near the British Grand Prix circuit, Silverstone.

Mayer, a 59-year-old former Formula 1 steward and son of the late McLaren principal Teddy Mayer, has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the current leadership of the FIA. He cited a "failure in leadership" as a primary reason for his decision to run, emphasizing the need for restructuring within the organization to better serve the global motorsport community.

"What I see is a failure in leadership right now," Mayer stated during the press conference. He revealed that he had been preparing for this campaign for six months, describing his bid as a Herculean task given the recent statute changes that seemingly favor Ben Sulayem.

Mayer also addressed the circumstances surrounding his departure from the FIA last November, claiming he was dismissed via a text message from an assistant to Ben Sulayem—a claim the FIA disputes. Despite these challenges, Mayer expressed confidence in his campaign, highlighting support from Motorsport UK and informing Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Liberty Media-owned Formula 1, of his plans.

"The job now is to go out and explain to lots of small clubs around the world... why we can do a better job," Mayer said. "Explaining how we can bring value and restructure the FIA to do a better job. I do feel restructuring needs to happen."

Ben Sulayem, an Emirati, has already announced his intention to seek a second term. Until Mayer's announcement, he had no declared opponents, with Spain's double world rally champion Carlos Sainz Sr. recently deciding not to stand. Mayer stated that he would have proceeded with his candidacy regardless of Sainz's decision, dismissing any potential conflicts of interest related to his historic family connection with McLaren.

The FIA, as the governing body for Formula 1, the world rally championship, and Formula E, among other series, plays a pivotal role in the global motorsport landscape. The upcoming election in December 2025 will be a critical moment for the organization, with Mayer's campaign focusing on leadership, transparency, and structural reforms.