Malcolm Wilson nominated as new FIA Deputy President for Sport

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has named Malcolm Wilson, the M-Sport boss and former British Rally champion, as his nominee for the governing body’s new deputy president for sport.

The announcement follows the resignation of Robert Reid earlier this month, prompted by a dispute over new confidentiality measures.

Wilson’s nomination awaits approval at the FIA’s General Assembly in June, where member clubs will vote on whether the rally veteran will assume the role until the next presidential elections in December.

Wilson, who claimed the 1994 British Rally Championship in a Ford Escort Cosworth, has built a formidable legacy in motorsport. As the head of M-Sport, he has led Ford’s World Rally Championship program to manufacturers’ titles in 2006, 2007, and 2017.

His extensive experience as both a driver and a technical leader positions him as a key figure to support the FIA’s ambitions, particularly in grassroots and professional motorsport development.

Ben Sulayem’s choice comes at a time when the FIA seeks stability and innovation following Reid’s exit, which followed his refusal to comply with new confidentiality restrictions that barred him from a World Motor Sport Council meeting.

Wilson’s Vision and FIA’s Future

“Malcolm has had a distinguished career in global motor sport,” Ben Sulayem stated. “For over 40 years he has competed at the highest level both as a driver and technical partner to teams.

“This experience will be invaluable to the FIA and our member clubs as we continue to grow grassroots and professional motor sport, driving innovation in the sport to benefit fans, drivers and teams.”

Ben Sulayem’s endorsement highlights Wilson’s dual expertise, which could bridge the gap between the FIA’s regulatory goals and the practical needs of teams and drivers.

Wilson, expressing gratitude for the nomination, signaled his readiness to contribute to the FIA’s mission.

“It is a great honour to be nominated for the role of FIA deputy president for sport,” he said.

“The FIA has played a central role in my career, and I very much look forward to supporting the president and all the FIA family in its important mission.

• Read also: Reid sheds light on FIA’s governance crisis in scathing statement

There has never been a more exciting time to be in motor sport, and I know first-hand the benefits the sport brings to families and communities across the world.”

His comments reflect a deep personal connection to the sport and an optimism about its global impact.

If approved, Wilson will serve as deputy president for sport until December 2025, when the FIA’s next presidential elections are scheduled.

Ben Sulayem, who took office in 2021, faces no declared challengers for his position as of now, suggesting a stable leadership transition for Wilson’s potential tenure.

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