This is with reference to the news item published on Gulf Today website on Friday, “Emirati’s Ben Sulayem makes history in succeeding Jean Todt as FIA chief.” This is wonderful news and a great achievement for the UAE. We, the residents of the UAE, are thrilled to hear the news. We congratulate him for this exceptional honour.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem became the first non-European to be elected president of the International Automobile Federation (FIA) on Friday and succeeds the retiring Jean Todt.

Ben Sulayem gained 61.62 per cent of the votes cast compared to 36.62 per cent for his sole rival Britain’s Graham Stoker. This shows his popularity. The former rally driver replaces Todt, who stands down after 12 years at the helm. I am very honoured to have been elected FIA President at the conclusion of the Annual General Assembly in Paris, said Ben Sulayem.

Ben Sulayem’s commitment to sports is infectious and unwavering. He has been associated with tsports for a very long time. His celebrated journey and achievements have been an inspiration for Emiratis and others. Hope we can learn from his journey. A very humble and soft-spoken Ben Sulayem has always been a role model for us.

Rishi Anwar
By email