On Wednesday, the FIA announced that its President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, has nominated Wilson as the candidate for the position of Deputy President for Sport.
Wilson’s appointment is not yet set in stone, as FIA members will vote on the nomination at an extraordinary general assembly in June. In practice, however, the vote is expected to be a formality, given Wilson has the backing of the FIA President.
The role was previously held by Robert Reid, who resigned earlier in April with strong criticism aimed at the FIA.
“When I took on this role, it was to serve the FIA’s members, not to serve power,” Reid said.
“Over time, I have witnessed a steady erosion of the principles we promised to uphold. Decisions are being made behind closed doors, bypassing the very structures and people the FIA exists to represent.”
Wilson has had a long and distinguished career in rallying, first as a driver and later as the man leading M-Sport. The British team, working in partnership with Ford, has achieved three manufacturers’ titles and two drivers’ championships in the World Rally Championship.
According to Wilson, it is a great honour to be nominated for the role of FIA Deputy President for Sport.
“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. 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,” Wilson told.
“I look forward to working with the President for the duration of his current term of office, bringing our sport to new audiences and ensuring we deliver the very best championships for all our competitors.”
Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s first term as FIA President is set to conclude in December.
