The former Chief Executive Officer of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), Natalie Robyn, has spoken publicly for the first time since her departure from the organization in May 2024, warning of the “serious structural challenges” facing the governing body of motorsport. Robyn, who held the position for just 18 months, stated that during her tenure she worked in a hostile environment to strengthen governance and improve the operational transparency of the federation. Her remarks come shortly after the resignation of the FIA’s Vice President for Sport, Robert Reid, who denounced a breakdown in the governance standards of the FIA.

Although it was initially reported that Robyn had left the position by mutual agreement to pursue new opportunities, it has now emerged that she was forced to resign following disagreements with President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The former executive expressed particular concern over the exclusion of key stakeholders from decision-making processes, which she believes “undermines the foundations of a strong organization.” Robyn also expressed her sadness over recent developments, stating that they jeopardize both the credibility and effectiveness of the FIA.

Internal crisis and key departures

Robyn’s statements are not an isolated event, but part of a wave of resignations and dismissals that have shaken the FIA over the past year. Following her departure, Bertrand Badre, head of the audit committee, and member Tom Purves also left, in addition to the dismissal of compliance officer Paolo Basarri, who had been investigating the alleged interference by Ben Sulayem in races during 2023. This series of exits has revealed a deepening internal fracture and has placed the management of the current president under scrutiny, as his influence and leadership style are increasingly questioned by former collaborators.

The controversy deepens as Ben Sulayem seeks to lead a proposal to change the 2026 engine regulations in Formula 1 ahead of schedule, aiming to return to naturally aspirated V10 engines. While Ferrari and Red Bull support the initiative, Mercedes, Honda, and Audi are strongly opposed. The political undertone of this proposal also raises questions, particularly due to the influence of figures like Bernie Ecclestone and Christian Horner in the president’s strategy. All of this comes just months before the FIA presidential elections, where, despite the growing discontent, no clear challenger has emerged to dispute Ben Sulayem’s power—who, according to some sources, maintains strong support through financial incentives offered to member federations.