Singhania elected to FIA World Motor Sport Council

Singhania takes over the role from Force India team principal Vijay Mallya, who stepped down from his position in October amid legal and financial issues arising out of his defunct Kingfisher Airlines.

The boss of Raymond fashion brand was one of the 14 members to be elected out of 22 nominees from around the world, with 82 votes going in his favour.

He will represent India in WMSC along with FMSCI President Akbar Ebrahim, who was also named as the Deputy Titular.

“I am elated and excited to be elected like this. It’s a privilege and honour for me and I will do my best,” Mr Singhania said.

“I thank the members of the FMSCI for their support. I am a driver and an enthusiast so I understand the issues that need to be addressed.”

Akbar Ebrahim added: “I am really glad that Mr Gautam Singhania has been elected. It gives us great satisfaction to note that an Indian will be a board member of the FIA World Motor Sports Council.

“I would like to thank Mr Jean Todt, President FIA, and all the FIA General Assembly members for all the support extended to India, the FMSCI and to Mr Gautam Singhania.”

“It is also a matter of pride that 17 of our nominated members have been co-opted in various FIA Sporting Commissions. This is the highest Indian representation in the FIA till date,” he added.

The WMSC is FIA’s motorsport powerful body and has the final say in several decisions. Each member gets elected for a period of four years.