Malcolm Wilson, founder and managing director of M-Sport, and recently appointed deputy president for sport at the FIA, is spearheading efforts to revive the World Rally Championship (WRC). His plan focuses on securing a new promoter and commercial rights holder, injecting capital, and establishing a long-term vision for the sport.
Recent Motorsport Engagements
January was a busy period for Wilson, encompassing both the Dakar Rally and the Monte Carlo Rally. M-Sport supported Ford’s Dakar effort, achieving competitive results despite narrowly missing victory. At Monte Carlo, M-Sport ran several customer Ford Fiesta WRC2 cars, marking the start of the WRC season.
Wilson emphasized satisfaction with the performance of the cars and teams in both events, though noted that navigational errors contributed to a second-place finish at Dakar.
FIA Role and Future Strategy
Wilson’s primary focus is now on developing the WRC. He believes the sport has untapped potential and that current efforts are aimed at realizing it. A key component of this strategy is finalizing a deal with a new promoter, expected within the next two months.
“We’re in the final stages of agreeing a deal with a new promoter… a big investment of capital and a new long-term vision.”
The transition from the current rights holder (Red Bull/KW25) is expected to be straightforward, with the new promoter assuming responsibilities promptly. While immediate changes will be minimal, Wilson anticipates significant developments over time, driven by the long-term plans of the preferred bidder.
Key Takeaways
Wilson’s appointment and plan are critical for the WRC’s future. The sport’s success hinges on attracting investment, modernizing its structure, and ensuring long-term growth. The upcoming promoter deal is a pivotal step toward these goals, and the FIA under Wilson’s guidance is committed to facilitating this transformation.
