FIA Deputy President Resigns Over Concerns
Robert Reid, the former deputy president for sport of the FIA, has elaborated on his resignation, which he announced just before the Bahrain Grand Prix. His departure underscores ongoing tensions related to governance within the organization led by president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
In a detailed post on Substack, Reid clarified that his resignation stemmed from disagreements with the FIA’s operational practices. He expressed disappointment regarding what he perceives as a disregard for essential governance principles, which he had initially sought to support.
Concerns About Governance
Reid articulated significant concerns about his interactions within the FIA after voicing critiques of various practices. He described a growing sense of isolation in response to his attempts to address serious issues, noting, “I spoke up when I believed essential principles were being eroded… I saw how challenging the status quo could lead to exclusion rather than constructive dialogue.”
His apprehensions were exacerbated by the FIA’s recent decision to take full control over the World Rallycross Championship, an action he worries could lead to potential legal ramifications. Reid underscored the seriousness of these concerns in his recent communications.
NDA Issues and Exclusion
Another significant development involved his exclusion from a World Motor Sport Council meeting following his hesitance to sign a new Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). Reid emphasized that his intention was not to reject the NDA, but rather to seek legal advice regarding its implications under Swiss law. When his request for additional time to consider the agreement was turned down, he deemed the situation “unfair and unlawful,” leading to the unexpected deactivation of his FIA email account.
Despite the challenges he faced, Reid reaffirmed his commitment to confidentiality and pledged not to disclose any sensitive information acquired during his tenure at the FIA.
Support and Concerns
After announcing his resignation, Reid received numerous supportive messages from colleagues within the FIA. However, many expressed hesitation in showing public solidarity for fear of retaliation. This widespread apprehension highlights more profound systemic issues within the organization.
In response to Reid’s resignation and his criticisms regarding the management of the World Rallycross Championship, an FIA spokesperson acknowledged his contributions to both the FIA and the broader motorsport community. They also reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to corporate governance and the enhancement of motorsport participation globally.
