[FIA Deputy President Resigns Over Governance Concerns]

The second-in-command at the International Automobile Federation (FIA), Robert Reid, has announced his resignation from the motor racing governing body, citing a “breakdown of governance standards.” In a statement released on Thursday morning, Reid informed FIA President Mohamed Ben Sulayem of his decision to relinquish his position.

[Alarm over Decision-Making Processes]

Reid expressed alarm over critical decisions being made without due process, particularly in the wake of Ben Sulayem’s restructuring of the organization. He stated, “When I took on this role, it was to serve the FIA’s members; not to serve power. Over time, I have witnessed a steady erosion of the principles we promised to uphold.

Decisions, according to Reid, are being made behind closed doors, bypassing the very structures and people the FIA exists to represent. He emphasized that his resignation is not about personalities but principles. “Motorsport deserves leadership that is accountable, transparent, and member-driven,” he said.

[Conflict with FIA President’s Leadership Decisions]

Alongside Motorsport UK chairman David Richards, Reid was one of two members barred from the latest gathering of the FIA World Motor Sport Council over his refusal to sign a non-disclosure agreement imposed by Ben Sulayem. Richards has also been critical of the FIA president’s leadership decisions.

Richards cited a “shift of the moral compass” of the president as a concern. Reid, in his statement, called on FIA member clubs and stakeholders to “demand greater accountability from the federation’s leadership.

The FIA has been contacted for comment but has yet to respond. This resignation comes at a time when the FIA is facing increased scrutiny over its governance practices.