DUBAI: National motor sport and mobility authorities from across the Middle East and North Africa region have delivered another major vote of confidence in Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s leadership of the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile and urged him to seek re-election as president.

The 29 FIA member clubs have written to Ben Sulayem saying that his tenure “has brought vital reforms across mobility and motorsport, marked by enhanced transparency, governance, sustainability, and inclusivity.”

Backing him for a second term in office, they expressed confidence that this will “further strengthen and modernize the organization for the benefit of all its members and stakeholders.”

In a letter of support to Ben Sulayem, the clubs said: “Your vision has helped bridge gaps, inspire unity, and empower regions like ours to contribute more meaningfully to the global FIA mission.

“We now feel equal as members of the FIA regardless of our size or location. We are proud to stand behind a leader from our region who has shown integrity, innovation, and courage in driving positive change on the world stage.”

Among the senior regional officials to sign the letter were MENA FIA Vice President for Mobility Essa Hamza Al-Failakawi from Kuwait, MENA FIA Vice President for Sport Abdulla bin Issa Al-Khalifa from Bahrain, and President of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation Khalid bin Sultan Al-Abdulla Al-Faisal.

The clubs told Ben Sulayem: “The modernization of our institution and the strong emphasis you have placed on member engagement and regional development have greatly benefited our clubs and the communities we serve.”

Ben Sulayem responded, saying: “I am deeply grateful for the trust and encouragement shown by the 29 sport and mobility member clubs from across the MENA region.

“This support holds special meaning for me, given my close connection to the region. I’ve seen firsthand the exceptional talent, commitment, and ambition that define the MENA community, and it is a true honor to have this backing. 

“The work being done by clubs in both sport and mobility across the region reflects the core values of the FIA — from grassroots initiatives like the MENA Karting Cup to ongoing efforts in road safety and sustainable mobility.

“Together, we will continue to shape a stronger, more dynamic FIA — one that truly represents the strength, diversity, and potential of every region we serve.”

The overwhelming support for Ben Sulayem from his home region quickly follows another powerful endorsement of his achievements as president, delivered in a letter of support from 36 FIA member clubs across the Americas.

MELBOURNE:Two-time World Cup champion Glenn Maxwell is retiring from one-day international cricket in a bid to play a role in Australia’s push for a Twenty20 world title next year.
Cricket Australia confirmed Maxwell’s decision Monday. The 36-year-old Maxwell played 149 ODIs for Australia in an enduring career that is memorable for his unbeaten double-century in the 2023 World Cup, his unconventional shot-making and his brilliant fielding.
Maxwell said the physical toll of the ODI game, which can take up to eight hours and be played on short turnarounds, was beginning to impact on his fielding ability and he didn’t think he’d make it to the 2027 World Cup.
“I always said I wasn’t going to hand my position over if I felt like I was still good enough to play. I didn’t want to just hold on for a couple of series and almost play for selfish reasons,” Maxwell said.
The Australian selectors “are moving in such a clear direction,” he said, so the retirement confirmation “gives them the best look at what the lineup is leading into that next World Cup. I know how important that planning is.”
Australia’s selection chairman George Bailey said Maxwell was one of the one-day game’s most dynamic players and played a key role in two ODI World Cup titles. The shorter T20 format is still a good vehicle for Maxwell’s rare talents.
“His level of natural talent and skill is remarkable. His energy in the field, under-rated ability with the ball and longevity has been superb,” Bailey said. “What else stands out is his passion for and commitment to playing for Australia.
“Fortunately, he still has much to offer Australia in the T20 format.”