FIA Chairman Mohammed Ben Sulayem has appointed a new presidential advisor, Shaila-Ann Rao. The lawyer is no stranger to Formula 1, having previously served as the FIA’s interim Director of Legal Affairs and Secretary-General. Rao also advised Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff. She will begin her new role on May 1.
In her new position as presidential advisor, Shaila-Ann Rao will advise FIA Chairman Mohammed Ben Sulayem on regulatory and commercial matters related to the seven FIA World Championships, including Formula 1. Rao is well-acquainted with motorsport. In addition to her legal background, she has experience as the FIA’s Director of Legal Affairs and served as interim Secretary-General for the governing body. She also worked for Mercedes, advising team boss Toto Wolff.
“I am delighted to welcome Shaila-Ann Rao back to the FIA,” says Ben Sulayem about his new advisor’s appointment. “She has an exceptional track 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 FIA World Championships for the benefit of our drivers, teams, and FIA Member Clubs. She will also advise me on matters relating to all FIA World Championship promoters.”
Controversies
Rao’s appointment comes after a series of controversies and departures within the FIA. Vice Chairman Robert Reid resigned in early April due to a ‘fundamental breach in governance standards’ within the FIA. At the end of 2024, several key figures left the governing body, including F1 Race Director Niels Wittich, F2 Race Director Janette Tan, and steward Tim Mayer. Sporting Director Steve Nielsen and Single-Seater Technical Director Tim Goss had already left.
