Robert Reid, the FIA’s deputy president for sport, has stepped down, citing a “fundamental breakdown in governance standards” within motorsport’s global governing body.
Reid, a key figure in FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s leadership team since their 2021 election, announced his resignation amidst growing controversies surrounding the president’s tenure.
In a strongly worded statement, Reid expressed alarm over “critical decisions being made without due process or proper consultation.”
He emphasized that his resignation was driven by principles, not personalities, stating, “Motorsport deserves leadership that is accountable, transparent, and member-driven. I can no longer, in good faith, remain part of a system that does not reflect those values.”
Reid’s departure follows contentious changes to FIA statutes, which critics argue concentrate power and reduce accountability. His resignation also comes in the wake of an open letter from MotorsportUK chairman David Richards, accusing the FIA of a “shift of moral compass.”
Among the controversies under Ben Sulayem’s leadership are allegations of interference in F1 races, whistleblower claims, and contentious rule changes regarding drivers’ public behavior. The FIA is also facing a lawsuit from Susie Wolff, director of the F1 Academy, over a conflict of interest inquiry.
Reid highlighted a recent decision to bring the promotion of the World Rallycross Championship in-house—bypassing FIA governance structures—as the “final breach of trust.”
He warned that the move could pose legal risks under European Union competition law and contravenes prior commitments to external promotion and strategic planning.
Ben Sulayem, whose first term ends this year, is up for re-election in December. While currently unopposed, reports suggest a potential challenger may emerge.
