Former senior executive Shaila-Ann Rao has made a surprise return to Formula 1's governing body the FIA just over two years after leaving. Rao, who left her interim secretary general position in 2022 after six months, has now been appointed as an adviser to FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. Rao is a lawyer who previously worked for the Mercedes Formula 1 team. Ben Sulayem and Rao had a sometimes difficult relationship in 2022. Rao's re-appointment comes amid a series of controversies affecting Ben Sulayem. She will start work on 1 May and provide advice on various matters related to the FIA World Championships.