British Rally Championship champion and the founder of M-Sport, Malcolm Wilson, has been put forward by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem as his top choice to take over the role of deputy president for sport, succeeding Robert Reid. This pivotal decision will be put to a vote during the extraordinary general assemblies and conference scheduled to take place in Macau in June.
Robert Reid recently stepped down from his position, pointing to what he described as a “standards breakdown” within the organization. He expressed his concerns, stating, “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.”
Malcolm Wilson is a prominent figure in the rallying scene, recognized not only for his skills as a driver but also as a successful entrepreneur. His long-standing partnership with Ford culminated in victory at the British Rally Championship in 1994. Under his leadership, M-Sport achieved remarkable success, winning the World Rally Championship for manufacturers in both 2006 and 2007.
In 2009, Wilson was honored with the Order of the British Empire in recognition of his contributions to motorsport, a testament to his influence and dedication to the industry. M-Sport, headquartered at Dovenby Hall near Cockermouth in Cumbria, managed to navigate the challenges posed by Ford’s exit as a works team, thanks largely to Wilson’s entrepreneurial spirit. Beyond rallying, M-Sport has diversified its operations, developing customer engines for the British Touring Car Championship, managing Bentley’s GT3 program, and collaborating with Jaguar on the i-PACE eTROPHY series, which supports Formula E races.
In an official statement from the FIA, President Mohammed Ben Sulayem expressed his enthusiasm about nominating Wilson for the deputy president role. “I am delighted to nominate Malcolm Wilson OBE for the role of FIA deputy president for sport,” Ben Sulayem stated. He emphasized Wilson’s extensive career in global motorsport, highlighting that Wilson has competed at the highest levels for over 40 years, both as a driver and as a technical partner to various teams. This wealth of experience, according to Ben Sulayem, will be crucial for the FIA and its member clubs, particularly as the organization aims to foster both grassroots and professional motorsport while driving innovation that benefits fans, drivers, and teams alike.
Reflecting on his nomination, Malcolm Wilson commented on the significant role the FIA has played throughout his career. “The FIA has played a central role in my career,” he said, expressing his eagerness to support the president and the broader FIA family in their vital mission. Wilson acknowledged the current vibrant atmosphere in motorsport and reiterated the positive impact the sport has on families and communities worldwide. He expressed his commitment to working alongside the president throughout his current term, aiming to introduce the sport to new audiences and ensuring that the championships offered are of the highest quality for all competitors.
The current term of FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem is set to conclude this year, with his re-election slated for December. Wilson’s potential appointment comes at a time when the FIA is looking to strengthen its leadership in the sport, ensuring that it remains relevant and responsive to the needs of its members and stakeholders.
Malcolm Wilson’s career is a compelling narrative of resilience and adaptability, traits that are essential in the ever-evolving landscape of motorsports. His journey from a successful rally driver to the helm of M-Sport illustrates a deep understanding of the sport from multiple perspectives. Wilson’s entrepreneurial skills have allowed M-Sport to thrive even in challenging circumstances, showcasing his ability to innovate and lead effectively.
The rallying community and motorsport fans alike are watching closely as this nomination unfolds. Wilson’s track record suggests he would bring a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the FIA’s leadership. His deep-rooted connections within the sport could foster greater collaboration between the FIA and various motorsport stakeholders, enhancing the overall experience for participants and fans.
Wilson’s commitment to grassroots motorsport is particularly noteworthy. He understands that nurturing young talent and promoting accessibility to the sport is crucial for its long-term sustainability. By focusing on grassroots initiatives, Wilson aims to create pathways for aspiring drivers, ensuring that the sport continues to evolve and attract new generations of enthusiasts.
In addition to his focus on grassroots initiatives, Wilson’s vision includes leveraging technology and innovation to enhance the motorsport experience. As the world becomes increasingly digital, incorporating advanced technology into motorsport can offer fans more engaging experiences, whether through enhanced broadcast options, interactive platforms, or improved safety measures.
As the FIA approaches the upcoming extraordinary general assemblies and conference in Macau, the implications of Wilson’s nomination extend beyond his individual candidacy. It represents a pivotal moment for the FIA as it seeks to redefine its leadership and reaffirm its commitment to upholding the principles that govern the sport. The election outcome will significantly affect the direction of motorsport governance and the initiatives that will shape the future of the sport.
In summary, Malcolm Wilson’s nomination for the role of FIA deputy president for sport symbolizes a blend of experience, innovation, and a commitment to the motorsport community. His tenure at the forefront of rallying, coupled with his entrepreneurial achievements, positions him as a formidable candidate to lead the FIA into a new era. The upcoming vote in Macau will not only determine Wilson’s future in this influential role but also set the stage for the FIA’s evolving relationship with motorsport enthusiasts, participants, and organizations worldwide.
