Rao makes surprise FIA return as Ben Sulayem advisor

Just over two years after leaving, former senior executive Shaila-Ann Rao has made a surprise return to the FIA, the organization’s governing body.

After only six months in the position, Rao, the FIA president, appointed her adviser.

Before joining the FIA, Rao was a lawyer who previously served as Toto Wolff’s boss and general counsel to the Mercedes Formula 1 team.

In the upcoming FIA presidential election, Rao returns as Ben Sulayem prepares to run for re-election.

Rao himself got in touch with the Emirati to inquire about joining the group.

In the wake of a string of controversy that Ben Sulayem experienced during his three years as president, Rao’s appointment comes at a new level.

The resignation of Robert Reid, deputy president for sport, this month, was the most recent example of concern for the FIA’s direction of governance under Ben Sulayem’s leadership.

The former chief executive officer, Natalie Robyn, who had only been in her position for 18 months, was asked to leave the organization last summer, breaking the silence on the day.

In remarks made to BBC Sport, Robyn also expressed concern for Ben Sulayem’s leadership.

On May 1st, Rao will begin his job. According to an FIA statement, she will serve as a consultant and give advice to the FIA president on a range of issues, including regulatory and business issues related to the seven FIA World Championships.

In the statement, Ben Sulayem stated, “Shaila-Ann Rao will be a great asset to my team as we work to improve the regulatory and commercial frameworks across all the FIA World Championships, benefiting our drivers, teams, and FIA member clubs.

She will also give me advice on issues involving all the FIA World Championship sponsors.

Rao stated, “I look forward to advising the FIA president throughout the FIA World Championships and building on the significant progress that has already been made to strengthen the Championships’ regulatory and commercial frameworks.”

“I’m excited to support the FIA at this time and help the FIA president create a stronger future for motor sport,” said the FIA president.

The FIA has not yet responded, despite BBC Sport’s request for more details regarding the circumstances surrounding Rao’s employment.