The President of the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile Mohammed Ben Sulayem has received an official letter signed by 34 heads of the FIA Member Clubs and Sport Federations of America, expressing their full support following accusations he interfered with proceedings related to the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and the Las Vegas Grand Prix last year.
After a thorough internal investigation led by external and independent members and a series of interviews with over 10 witnesses, the FIA Ethics Committee published a report absolving Ben Sulayem of any wrongdoing.
“Allegations against the FIA President were unsubstantiated and strong evidence beyond any reasonable doubt was presented to support the determination of the FIA Ethics Committee,” the report stated.
Committee members also commended Ben Sulayem’s transparency and compliance during the investigation, leading to his exoneration after no evidence was found to substantiate the allegations.
In a previous statement to member clubs, Ben Sulayem highlighted that the unfounded allegations were meant as an attack against the FIA’s leadership.
Theodora 34 heads of the FIA Member Clubs and Sport Federations of America declared unwavering support for Ben Sulayem, who “acted honorably” according to their letter, published on the FIA website.
The letter’s signatories also accused biased media of spreading incorrect information to taint the president’s reputation. They also asked relevant authorities to take necessary legal action against the parties who made the allegations, accusing them of slander.
“We endorse and ratify our vote of confidence in support of Mr. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, for his stewardship of the FIA and his progress to fulfilling his commitment to transform the FIA in an ethical and transparent manner in order to better serve its members,” the statement said.
