Rumours emerged this week that Carlos Sainz Sr. is thinking about running for president of the FIA, the governing body of world motorsport.

The next election is due to take place this December, and so far, no other candidates have officially stepped forward. Sainz Sr., who is still racing and won the 2024 Dakar Rally with Audi, is also the father of current Williams F1 driver Carlos Sainz Jr., who spent the last four seasons at Ferrari.

Speaking to Motorsport.com, the 63-year-old confirmed the rumours: “There are plenty of reasons, but I have been driving for more than 40 years and this sport has given me everything.”

He said the idea of running had been on his mind before, but not too seriously until now. “This possibility has been in my mind for some time now, not very deeply, but now I think it could be the right time in my career for me to take the step.”

Sainz Sr. believes he could do a strong job in the role and help lead the FIA with a team of capable people. “I’m confident I can do a good job and put together an excellent team to give back to the sport part of what it has given me,” he said. 

“I have accumulated a lot of experience in this sport throughout the years and I’m certain I can bring new and interesting things, to strengthen and develop the sport and the automobile world.”

The two-time World Rally Champion believes the timing feels right for such a move. “I believe it is probably the right time for me personally and professionally, and that is why I am considering it,” he said, reinforcing that his intentions are based on a genuine desire to contribute to the sport’s future.

He also addressed concerns about a possible conflict of interest, given that his son, Carlos Sainz Jr., currently races in Formula 1. He was clear that this would not be a problem. “I have my track record and people know me well enough to understand that this will not be an issue,” he explained. “Obviously, I will have to step down regarding my role with Carlos and his career but this is not an issue at all.”