The SRO Motorsports Group has announced that it has established SRO Motorsports Australia, a dedicated operation for the Stephane Ratel-led organisation to oversee Fanatec GT World Challenge Australia and GT4 Australia going forward.
For this new venture, the SRO has named Ben McMellan as the inaugural CEO for SRO Motorsports Australia and filled other key positions in the organisation ahead of the 2024 race season.
McMellan brings valuable experience from key roles in the sport to his new position. His previous titles include head of category operations for ARG, which included GT World Challenge Australia and TCR Australia along with other domestic series. He has also worked with Porsche Carrera Cup Australia.
“We are delighted to announce the appointment of Ben to lead our dedicated Australian business,” Stephane Ratel, the founder CEO of SRO Motorsports said.
“Ben is well known to both our SRO global team and Fanatec GT World Challenge Australia customers. He has been instrumental in assisting with the establishment of our Australian business. He has demonstrated his commitment and capability and built strong relationships with the broader team.
“We look forward to seeing GT racing continuing to grow in Australia under his leadership.”
McMellan added: “I thank Stephane for the opportunity, and I look forward to working with the team both here in Australia and SRO more broadly to deliver a quality platform for our teams, drivers, and sponsors.
“We have some very exciting new additions as part of the 2024 Fanatec GT World Challenge Australia Championship to be announced.”
In addition, the SRO has appointed Abi Hay as the head of sporting and business development. She moves to Australia from the SRO’s European team. Her previous roles include series manager of the Intercontinental GT Challenge and stints as deputy race director for GT World Challenge Europe, GT4 Europe and European Series. She has also served as assistant sporting director of the GT2 European Series.
Charise Bristow meanwhile, will continue to fill the role of GT World Challenge Australia championship manager, and Grant Rowley’s Network R business will lead communications and content for the organisation.
In conjunction with Motorsport Australia, SRO Motorsports Australia has secured a high-quality team of officials to support its trackside operations too.
Featured image courtesy of Jack Martin
