FIA CEO Natalie Robyn resigns from her position

FIA’s first CEO Natalie Robyn is leaving Formula One’s governing body after serving just 18 months as its first chief executive, the governing body communicated on Wednesday.

Robyn, who has over 15 years experience in both the automotive and financial sectors, was appointed FIA’s first CEO in September 2022. She was tasked with overlooking the FIA’s financial performance as the FIA intended to “increase and diversify” their revenue streams.

At the time of her appointment, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said that Robyn’s role “will be crucial to improving our finances, governance and operations” and deliver “diversification and growth, as well as developing executive leadership capabilities.”

Robyn, who previously worked at Volvo, Nissan and DaimlerChrysler in various positions, will leave the FIA at the end of May.

In the announcement of Robyn’s departure, the FIA said: “The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) announces today the departure of Natalie Robyn from the position of CEO.

“Natalie has spearheaded a comprehensive overhaul of the Federation’s operational structure, playing a pivotal role in modernising the FIA, enhancing governance, and securing sustainable financial stability. Natalie’s appointment to the role of CEO in November 2022 marked a milestone, leveraging her 18-year career encompassing roles within both the automotive and finance sectors.

“Her decision to pursue opportunities outside of the FIA has prompted her departure from the organisation by mutual agreement, effective at the end of May.”

Expanding on her decision, Robyn said: “Performing in the role of CEO at the FIA has been an enormous privilege and I am grateful to have directed a programme of restructuring and reform. Now is the time to step away in the knowledge that the organisation is better placed for the challenges which lie ahead.

“I take great pride in my role in advancing the FIA’s transformation across both Sport and Mobility, and I am pleased to leave an organisation comprised of a wonderful team of talented and dedicated individuals.”

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem added that “Natalie’s appointment was notable as the first CEO in the history of the FIA.

“She has contributed greatly to a wide-ranging reorganisation of our operational and management structure as well as our financial sustainability. On behalf of the FIA, I wish her well in her future endeavours.”

In recent months, the FIA has lost three other key members. Sporting director Steve Nielsen departed at the end of 2023 while single-seater technical director Tim Goss also left the governing body shortly afterwards. Goss has became RB’s chief technical officer since. FIA Women in Motorsport Commission chief Deborah Mayer also left the organization.