“He is not on my side” – the president of the FIA, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, shocked the WRC world with his declaration targeting Sébastien Loeb. Less than ten minutes later, Loeb amazed the world of the race and impressed everyone by defending themselves, arousing the praise of the fans.
💥 The World Rally Championship was shakenAfter the president of the FIA, Mohammed, Ben Sulayem, made an blunt and unexpected statement during a press briefing at the Dakar 2025 rally. When he asked him about the future of Sébastien Loeb in rally competition, Ben Sulayem replied,“He’s not by my side.”The remark, delivered with little context, was interpreted by many as an audience far from French legend, aroused immediate reactions and confusion in the community of motorsport.
⚠️ The tension between Loeb and the FIA had simmered, especially after the controversial disqualification of Loeb earlier in the season and the criticism of his strategic approach to the evolutionary format of Dakar. Ben Sulayem had previously said that Loeb “needed to adapt”, suggesting that the veteran driver had trouble adapting to the demands of modern rally competition. But this last comment was personal – and Loeb did not wait long to answer.
💬 Less than ten minutes later, Loeb amazed the world of the race with a calm but powerful statement:“I never needed to be on the side of anyone to run with heart.”His words, delivered in a brief appearance with the media, met thunderous applause of fans and drivers. Social media has burst out support, with hashtags like #Standwithloeb and #legendneverfades across Europe. Many have congratulated the dignity and resilience of Loeb, calling it “the soul of rally races”.
🌍 While the WRC season continues, the fallout from this exchange could reshape the relationship between drivers and the director of sport. LOEB’s response not only defended its inheritance but rekindled conversations on respect, leadership and treatment of veteran athletes. Whether it marks a turning point or deepens the fracture, one thing is clear: Sébastien Loeb may not be “on the side of Ben Sulayem”, but it is firmly in the hearts of gathering fans around the world.
