Multiple world rally champion Carlos Sainz has announced he will not stand in this year’s FIA election.

Sainz was previously rumoured to be considering whether to challenge incumbent Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who has already announced he will run for a second term.

The 63-year-old announced his decision in a post on social media. “I have finally decided not to run for the presidency of the FIA in this year’s election,” said Sainz.

He said a campaign would be a distraction from his participation in Ford’s rally raid team. However Sainz indicated he could make a run for the presidency in the future.

“I have worked hard these past months to understand in depth the situation at the FIA and the demands and complexities that come with such an important project,” said Sainz. “After a thoughtful reflection, I have come to the conclusion that the present circumstances are not ideal to set the grounds for my candidacy.

“Furthermore, I have realised that properly running for president would notably compromise my preparation for the Dakar and I do not wish to weaken my commitment to Ford and my team. These concerns have therefore inclined me to be realistic and desist from my FIA endeavour for now.”

Sainz said he remains convinced change is needed within the governance of worldwide motorsport.

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“Despite stepping down from this race, my passion for serving and leading within the motorsport world hasn’t changed and I still believe the organisation needs important changes, which I remain genuinely hopeful […] will be tackled in the upcoming years,” he said.

“Both racing and mobility have been my life and I will closely follow future developments with great interest. I will always support my sport and try to contribute in all meaningful ways to improve mobility for road users around the world.”

He said the messages of support he received while considering a bid have “reinforced my confidence to continue striving towards my present and future goals and I’m truly grateful.”

His son, Williams Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz Jnr, previously said the pair would ensure no conflicts of interest would arise if his father was elected in charge of the FIA.

Sainz’s decision not to enter the election means Ben Sulayem remains the only individual who has announced their candidacy.

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