Former FIA chief executive Natalie Robyn has spoken publicly for the first time since her departure in May 2024, revealing “serious ongoing structural challenges” within motorsport’s governing body.
Robyn’s resignation, initially described by the FIA as “mutual,” stemmed from disputes with FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
Her comments come in response to the resignation of FIA deputy president of sport Robert Reid, who left citing “a fundamental breakdown in governance standards.”
Robyn stated, “During my tenure as CEO, I worked under challenging circumstances to strengthen the federation’s governance framework and upgrade its operational transparency. The resignation of the deputy president of sport clearly indicates there are serious ongoing structural challenges.”
Robyn expressed concern over a lack of adherence to professional processes and the exclusion of stakeholders from decision-making. “When professional processes are not adhered to and stakeholders are excluded, it undermines the foundation of a strong organisation,” she said, adding that these issues pose risks to the FIA’s credibility and effectiveness.
Robyn’s departure followed her raising concerns about governance and financial practices within the FIA, particularly in the president’s office. Her exit was accompanied by the dismissal of key figures, including Bertrand Badre and Tom Purves from the audit committee in mid-2024, and compliance officer Paolo Basarri in late 2023.
As the FIA faces scrutiny ahead of Ben Sulayem’s potential re-election later this year, Robyn emphasized the need for leadership grounded in accountability and transparency.
