FIA deputy president for sport Robert Reid resigned from his position with the governing body of world motorsport on Thursday.
The 2001 World Rally champion informed FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem of his decision – which is effective immediately – on Thursday morning before issuing a statement outlining the reasons for his move.
Reid said: “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 are being made behind closed doors, bypassing the very structures and people the FIA exists to represent.
“My resignation is not about personalities, it is about principles. Motorsport deserves leadership that is accountable, transparent, and member-driven. I can no longer, in good faith, remain part of a system that does not reflect those values.”
Reid’s statement further outlined the growing disquiet with the FIA’s direction.
The statement read: “During his tenure, Reid led a series of initiatives to strengthen governance, empower member clubs, and promote inclusive, sustainable motorsport development worldwide.
“His resignation follows a recent decision to internalise the promotion of the World Rallycross Championship, an action taken without Senate or World Council approval that could carry legal risk under European Union competition law, which Reid described as “the final breach of trust and due process”.”
Reid has been Ben Sulayem’s deputy since his election to the role of FIA president in 2021 – but signs of discontent were obvious when Reid, along with fellow World Motor Sport Council member David Richards, were blocked from joining a February WMSC meeting.
Reid won 10 rounds of the World Rally Championship while co-driving Richard Burns and has remained a driving force in the sport’s governance since. The Scot insisted he has more to give to motorsport.
“This is not the end of my service to motorsport,” Reid added. “I will continue to advocate for reform, transparency, and governance that respects the FIA’s members and the integrity of our sport.”
