Wheatley was previously WRC category manager after joining the FIA in 2019. He has a long history at the sport’s top level after working at M-Sport for 20 years, taking on the role of business development manager there in 2005.
He takes on the job in a milestone season for the FIA World Rally Championship with the introduction of hybrid-powered Rally1 cars as a key part of a more sustainable future for the sport.
“We have ushered in a great deal of technological change in the past 12 months across the rally spectrum including the introduction of hybrid powertrains and fossil-free fuels at the highest levels,” he said.
“Our task going forward is to consolidate this and then bring that same level of focus to strengthen the base of the rally pyramid to ensure that we safeguard the future of the sport.
“The future of automotive technology is evolving so quickly we must ensure we keep pace with that change for the benefit of all of stakeholders, engage member clubs through a regional focus and help to develop the stars of tomorrow.”
Wheatley has competed on more than 70 rallies in Britain after beginning his motorsport career at the age of 16. He still drives in national rallies in the UK when the opportunity arises.
Finland
Italy
Hungary