Can Reid's controversial resignation be forgotten? Ben Sulayem proposes replacement

The candidate is Malcolm Wilson. The Brit previously won the British Rally in 1994. He is currently the managing director at M-Sport, which has led Ford's rally program since 1997. He is also an honorary member of the British Racing Drivers Club and was awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2009.

Ben Sulayem further explained his choice to nominate Wilson for the vice presidency: “I am delighted to nominate Malcolm Wilson OBE for the role of FIA Vice President of Sport. Malcolm has had an impressive career in global motorsports. For over 40 years, he has competed at the highest level, both as a driver and as a technical partner of teams. This experience will be invaluable to the FIA and our Member Clubs as we continue to grow both grassroots and professional motorsport. We also aim to stimulate innovation in the sport for the benefit of fans, drivers, and teams.”

Wilson feels honored to be nominated for the role: “The FIA has played a central role in my career, and I am very much looking forward to supporting the president and the FIA family in this important mission. There has never been a more exciting time in motorsports, and I know firsthand the benefits the sport has for families and communities around the world. I look forward to working with the president during his current term to introduce our sport to a new audience and ensure we can organize the very best championships for all our participants.”

It is not yet 100 percent certain that Wilson will succeed Reid. A vote among the members of the FIA will be held. This will take place during the extraordinary general meeting and conference in Macau, scheduled for June.

The need for a new vice president arose from Reid stepping down. The Brit stated his intent was to serve the members of the FIA when he took on the role, and not to serve power. According to him, this was no longer the case due to decisions being made behind closed doors, and certain structures and people within the FIA were entirely bypassed in the decision-making process. For this reason, he resigned.