Austrian Automobile Association urges FIA to drop controversial statute vote

MONTREAL: The Austrian Automobile Association (OAMTC) has called on members of the FIA to oppose proposed changes to the organization’s statutes, expressing concern that the amendments could undermine the integrity of motorsport’s governing body and restrict fair competition in its upcoming presidential election.

In a letter dated June 10 and shared with members of the FIA’s World Council mobility section, the OAMTC appealed for the removal of the vote from the agenda of Thursday’s General Assembly in Macau.

“We appeal to all members to support our motion to remove the voting on the proposed FIA statute changes from the General Assembly’s agenda,” the letter stated, stressing that there was no urgency for the amendments and warning of potential harm to the FIA’s reputation.

The timing of the proposals—coinciding with the incumbent president Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s announcement of his intention to seek re-election—raised additional concerns for the OAMTC. The letter questioned the motives behind the leadership’s push for changes that may influence the electoral process.

The appeal reflects growing unease within some factions of the FIA over transparency and governance as the organization prepares for its next leadership vote.