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FIA Votes to Remove Presidential Term Limits with 90% Majority

BBC Sport •
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Formula 1's governing body has voted to eliminate presidential term limits, with Mohammed Ben Sulayem's proposal passing by a 90.71% majority at the FIA general assembly in Macau. The change removes the previous restriction of three four-year terms, allowing the 64-year-old president to potentially extend his tenure indefinitely.

The reforms also affect other FIA positions including the anti-doping committee and F1 cost-cap committee leadership roles. New eligibility requirements demand candidates demonstrate sufficient experience within FIA structures, while the timeline for submitting vice-presidential support teams has doubled from 49 to 100 days before elections.

Former FIA vice-president Robert Reid criticized the changes, warning that term limits serve as important safeguards for institutional renewal. He argued the new rules could shift power toward those interpreting vague eligibility standards rather than ensuring genuine democratic competition.

The FIA also disclosed an operating profit of €6.7m in 2025, representing a 43% increase year-on-year. This financial performance comes as the organization consolidates governance reforms that will significantly impact future leadership transitions in international motorsport.