Two British members of the FIA World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) were excluded from a recent meeting due to a disagreement with president Mohammed Ben Sulayem regarding a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). FIA deputy president Robert Reid and David Richards, the chairman of UK Motorsport, were denied access after they declined to sign the NDA, which aims to prevent discussions about FIA-related matters outside official council meetings.
Sources indicate that Ben Sulayem implemented the NDA following concerns over increasing leaks from within the FIA. An FIA spokesperson emphasized that such procedures are critical for maintaining confidential relationships and safeguarding essential regulatory interests.
The absence of Reid and Richards raised questions about the legitimacy of the decisions made during the meeting, including a new second mandatory pit stop for this year’s Monaco Grand Prix. Both members have opted not to comment on the issue.
Ben Sulayem’s presidency has been marked by controversy since his election in 2021, including his stances on various regulatory matters and internal conflicts. Additionally, he has faced allegations regarding meddling in the 2023 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix results, which were dismissed.
The exclusion of Reid, a notable figure within the FIA’s leadership team, is particularly significant given his previous support for Ben Sulayem’s presidency. Meanwhile, other prominent WMSC members, including Formula 1 president Stefano Domenicali, have not voiced objections to the NDA.
Looking ahead, Ben Sulayem is anticipated to run for re-election for another four-year term at the end of 2025, having indicated his openness to competition for the role.
