Shaila-Ann Rao Returns to FIA as Adviser amid Leadership Concerns
Shaila-Ann Rao, a former senior executive, has rejoined the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) as an adviser to President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. Her return comes just over two years after she left her position as interim secretary general and amid scrutiny of Ben Sulayem’s leadership.
Rao’s Background and Previous FIA Tenure
Rao is a lawyer with a strong background in Formula 1. Before her initial stint with the FIA, she served as general counsel for the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team and as a special advisor to team principal Toto Wolff. She initially left the FIA after just six months as interim secretary general in 2022.
Timing of Re-Appointment Amid FIA Turmoil
Rao’s re-appointment coincides with a period of upheaval within the FIA. Ben Sulayem is preparing to run for a second term in the FIA presidential election in December. Recently, Deputy President for Sport Robert Reid resigned, citing concerns about the governance direction under Ben Sulayem. Natalie robyn, the former chief executive officer who was asked to leave the organization last summer, also voiced concerns about Ben Sulayem’s leadership.
FIA President Praises Rao’s Return
Ben Sulayem contacted Rao directly to offer her the advisory role. In a statement, he praised Rao’s expertise, stating, “Shaila-Ann Rao has an extraordinary record in global motorsport and will be a great asset to me and my team as we continue to improve the regulatory and commercial frameworks across all the FIA World Championships, benefiting our drivers, teams, and FIA member clubs.”
Rao’s Statement on FIA Return
Rao said she was looking forward to advising the FIA president, stating: “I am looking forward to advising the FIA president across the FIA World championships and building on the significant progress that has already been made during his presidential term strengthening the Championships’ regulatory and commercial frameworks…The FIA holds a unique place in global sport, and I am excited to support the FIA at this time and to help the FIA president deliver an even stronger future for motor sport.”
FIA Unresponsive to Request for Comment
As of yet,the FIA has not responded to requests for further explanation regarding the circumstances surrounding Rao’s recruitment.
Given recent resignations and voiced concerns regarding leadership, what impact might Shaila-Ann Rao’s return as an advisor have on the upcoming FIA presidential election?
Shaila-Ann Rao Returns to FIA as Adviser amid Leadership Concerns
Shaila-Ann Rao, a former senior executive, has rejoined the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) as an adviser to President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. Her return comes just over two years after she left her position as interim secretary general and amid scrutiny of Ben Sulayem’s leadership.
Rao’s background and Previous FIA Tenure
Rao is a lawyer with a strong background in Formula 1. Before her initial stint with the FIA, she served as general counsel for the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team and as a special advisor to team principal Toto Wolff. She initially left the FIA after just six months as interim secretary general in 2022.
Timing of Re-appointment Amid FIA Turmoil
Rao’s re-appointment coincides with a period of upheaval within the FIA. Ben Sulayem is preparing to run for a second term in the FIA presidential election in December. Recently, deputy President for Sport Robert Reid resigned, citing concerns about the governance direction under Ben Sulayem. Natalie robyn, the former chief executive officer who was asked to leave the association last summer,also voiced concerns about Ben Sulayem’s leadership.
FIA President Praises Rao’s Return
Ben Sulayem contacted Rao directly to offer her the advisory role. In a statement, he praised Rao’s expertise, stating, “shaila-Ann Rao has an unusual record in global motorsport and will be a great asset to me and my team as we continue to improve the regulatory and commercial frameworks across all the FIA World Championships, benefiting our drivers, teams, and FIA member clubs.”
Rao’s Statement on FIA Return
Rao said she was looking forward to advising the FIA president, stating: “I am looking forward to advising the FIA president across the FIA World championships and building on the significant progress that has already been made during his presidential term strengthening the Championships’ regulatory and commercial frameworks…the FIA holds a unique place in global sport, and I am excited to support the FIA at this time and to help the FIA president deliver an even stronger future for motor sport.”
FIA Unresponsive to Request for Comment
As of yet,the FIA has not responded to requests for further explanation regarding the circumstances surrounding Rao’s recruitment.
Q&A: Shaila-Ann Rao’s Return to FIA
Q: Why is Shaila-Ann Rao’s return significant?
A: Her return as an advisor to FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, amid leadership concerns and after a short stint as Interim Secretary General, raises questions about the direction and stability of the organization.
Q: What was Rao’s previous role at FIA?
A: She served as Interim Secretary General for six months in 2022.
Q: What is the role of an advisor?
A: An advisor provides expert counsel and guidance to the president on various matters, including regulatory frameworks and commercial strategies.
Q: Who else has voiced concerns about Ben sulayem’s leadership?
A: Robert Reid, the Deputy President for Sport, resigned, and Natalie Robyn, the former CEO, also expressed concerns.
Q: What is the FIA?
A: The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile is the governing body for motorsports, including Formula 1, and oversees regulations and championships worldwide. It is the equivalent of FIFA for soccer or the IOC for the Olympic games.
Q: What is the FIA presidential election?
A: It’s the election where members of the FIA vote for the president of the organization. Ben Sulayem is running for a second term in December.
Q: What does this mean for the future of Formula 1?
A: The FIA plays a crucial role in shaping the sport. The changes in leadership and the return of Rao could influence regulations, governance, and the overall direction of Formula 1 and other FIA-sanctioned championships.
Q: Where else has Shaila-Ann Rao worked?
A: Rao previously worked as General Counsel for the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One team and as a special advisor to Toto Wolff.
Q: What is the meaning of the FIA being unresponsive to requests for further explanation?
A: This lack of response could indicate a reluctance to address the concerns surrounding the leadership or to provide full transparency about Rao’s re-appointment.
Q: What happens next?
A: The FIA presidential election in December will be a crucial event to follow. Rao’s influence as an advisor and how the leadership issues are resolved will substantially impact the future of motorsports.
As the FIA navigates these turbulent times, Shaila-Ann Rao’s role will be critical. Stay informed about the latest developments as thay unfold.
