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Mayer Blasts Ben Sulayem Over FIA Dismissal Via Text Message
The FIA's recent leadership restructuring continues to spark controversy as Tim Mayer becomes the latest high-profile figure to be dismissed from the organization.
Mayer, a senior steward and U.S. championships organizer, revealed to BBC that his termination came via text message from one of President Mohammed Ben Sulayem's assistants. The dismissal followed Mayer's representation of the United States Grand Prix organizers in a successful right of review regarding a track invasion incident at Circuit of The Americas.
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Man smiling in blue racing suit
Formula 2 deputy race director Janette Tan is also departing, creating additional staffing challenges. Newly appointed F1 race director Rui Marques will now handle duties across F1, F2, and F1 Academy in Qatar.
These departures follow a string of recent high-profile exits, including:
- F1 race director Niels Wittich
- Compliance officer Paulo Basarri
- CEO Natalie Robyn
- Sporting director Steve Nielsen
- Single-seater technical director Tim Goss
- Women in motorsport president Deborah Mayer
Formula 1 driver George Russell expressed concern about the organizational instability, noting: "Just when we've asked for transparency and consistency, we're getting rid of two highly important people in the governing body." Russell emphasized the need for clarity regarding these personnel changes and their impact on the sport's governance.
The situation raises questions about the FIA's ability to maintain operational stability and effectiveness, particularly given the limited number of qualified race directors at the highest certification level.
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