UAE Automobile & Touring Club President Mohammed Ben Sulayem confirmed that "he is contemplating running in the upcoming FIA presidential elections, a decision that could make the Emirati the most powerful man in world motorsports," according to Gary Meenaghan of THE NATIONAL. He is preparing to run against FIA President Jean Todt, "the Frenchman who has led the governing body for global motorsport since October 2009" (THE NATIONAL, 9/27). In Dubai, Leslie Wilson wrote while it had been widely publicized that the post would be contested by Todt and Britain's David Ward, Ben Sulayem's speculated candidacy "has added a whole new dimension to the recent developments." A spokesperson for Ben Sulayem said, "Dr. Mohammad Bin Sulayem is aware of the speculation regarding the FIA presidency and it can be confirmed that he has been contacted in recent weeks by a number of ASC's (National sporting authority) from around the world who have expressed a desire for him to run as a candidate." Motorsport.com reported that F1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone "had hinted that a third contender might be waiting in the wings" (GULF NEWS, 9/26).
