Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer warns: “We need a strong FIA, or F1 will turn into wrestling”. Peter Bayer supports Mohammed Ben Sulayem's decisive approach but calls for more stability.

The comings and goings in the FIA
The leadership of the FIA presidency by Mohammed Ben Sulayem has drawn various criticisms over the years. These critiques have come not only from external observers, due to some questionable behaviors by the Emirati, but also from within. Evidence of this includes the numerous resignations from the Federation and the changes to the Statutes that have allowed Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Senate President Carmelo Sanz de Barros to control the ethics and compliance committees.

However, these methods appeal to some, given that the Statute changes were approved by 75% of voters and no potential candidates to unseat Ben Sulayem are currently in sight. For instance, according to RB CEO and former FIA secretary general Peter Bayer, the Federation needs this kind of decisive presidency.

Peter Bayer’s remarks
“I would be lying if I said the departures don’t concern me,” Bayer commented to RacingNews365. “At the same time, I believe we teams need a strong FIA. Everyone here is so competitive; it’s a ruthless business. And if there isn’t a neutral body staying out of all our daily disputes, then things become very difficult.”

“A strong Federation ensures that F1 remains a sport and doesn’t turn into wrestling. How do you achieve a strong FIA? In my opinion, with stability and reliability,” he continued, acknowledging, however, that “stability” isn’t exactly the right word to describe Ben Sulayem’s management. “It’s important for the FIA to quickly decide on a path and then develop the organization, ensuring it has enough competent people. Under Jean Todt’s management, we built something based on continuity, stability, relationships, and transparency. This is very important, and we expect the current governing body to provide it.”