Malcolm Wilson nominated for FIA deputy president for sport role

Dominika Jordan
Apr 23, 2025, 07:34 AM ET

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Respected Rally Leader Tapped for Pivotal Global Motorsport Position

In a significant move within the motorsport community, Malcolm Wilson, former rally driver and founder of the esteemed M-Sport outfit, has been nominated to serve as deputy president for sport at the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). The nomination comes as the governing body seeks a replacement for Robert Reid, who vacated the position earlier this month.

The FIA, which oversees premier global racing series such as Formula 1 and the World Rally Championship (WRC), confirmed that the nomination was proposed by its president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, and will be subject to an official vote at a meeting in Macau this coming June.

Malcolm Wilson’s Rallying Legacy

Wilson, a revered figure in rallying circles, is best known for his long-standing leadership at M-Sport, which has managed Ford's World Rally Championship (WRC) program since 1997. Under his guidance, M-Sport secured manufacturers' titles in 2006, 2007, and 2017, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

The Departure of Robert Reid

The position became available following the departure of Reid, a prominent figure in rallying who played an instrumental role both on and off the stages. A 2001 World Rally Championship-winning co-driver, Reid tendered his resignation, citing what he described as a "fundamental breakdown in governance standards" within the FIA.

Wilson’s Reaction and Future Prospects

Wilson expressed his appreciation for the nomination in a public statement, calling it an "honor" to be considered for the role. He also voiced his eagerness to align with FIA president Ben Sulayem, a former rally driver himself and the first non-European to hold the presidency. Ben Sulayem is widely anticipated to seek re-election in December.

For Wilson, this nomination signifies not only a recognition of his contributions to rallying but also an opportunity to shape the future of global motorsport at its highest level.

Upcoming FIA Vote

The motorsport world will now turn its attention to the upcoming FIA vote in June, where Wilson’s candidacy will be formally reviewed. Should he be confirmed, his vast experience and knowledge in the rallying sector could prove invaluable in elevating the sport’s governance and global appeal.