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FIA Announces Key Appointments Amid Departures, Speculations of Exodus

Posted : 10 October 2024

Formula One's governing body, the International Automobile Federation (FIA), announced two significant senior appointments in the wake of several high-profile departures that sparked discussions about a potential exodus from the organization, led by Emirati Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The FIA confirmed the new additions on Wednesday, signaling a move to strengthen its leadership amidst ongoing transitions within the administration.

 

Spaniard Alberto Villarreal has been appointed as the new general manager, taking on responsibilities that include reporting directly to both Ben Sulayem and Senate President Carmelo Sanz de Barros. Villarreal fills the role previously held by Natalie Robyn, the FIA's inaugural CEO, who left after just 18 months in May. Since Robyn's departure, the position has been restructured to streamline operations, indicating a shift in the organization's leadership approach.

 

The FIA has witnessed a series of significant staff exits, with Robyn being the fourth senior official to depart since December. Other notable departures include sporting director Steve Nielsen, single-seater technical director Tim Goss, and women's commission head Deborah Mayer.

 

These resignations have contributed to growing speculation regarding an exodus, which was further fueled by the exits of several other key positions, including the director of communications and the secretary general of mobility.

 

In addition to Villarreal's appointment, the FIA announced that Italian Alessandra Malhame would take on the role of senior HR director. Ben Sulayem, who became FIA president in late 2021 and is expected to seek re-election next year, has been a controversial figure.

 

He has often clashed with commercial rights holders Liberty Media and drivers over various issues, despite his earlier commitment to reduce his day-to-day involvement in Formula One to focus on broader strategic matters. Recently, he drew attention for comparing drivers to rappers and urging them to moderate their language, highlighting the ongoing tension within the sport.

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