FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has appointed Shalia-Ann Rao as an advisor who will build on her previous experience working in the FIA and Formula 1.
Rao will take up her role on May 1, with her duties including advising the FIA president on regulatory and commercial matters related to the seven world championships under the watchful eye of the motorsport governing body.
As a dually qualified English solicitor and French lawyer admitted to the Paris Bar, Rao has prior experience in F1, working as general counsel for Mercedes and as a special advisor to its CEO and team principal, Toto Wolff.
Rao returns to the FIA after a six-month stint in 2022 as interim secretary general.
“I am delighted to welcome back Shaila-Ann Rao to the FIA,” said FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
“She has an exceptional record in global motor sport 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.
“She will also advise me on matters related to all the FIA World Championship promoters.”
Rao added: “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.”
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