Motorsport Australia is mourning the loss of Morrie Chandler, a significant figure in rallying whose impact was felt well beyond his homeland of New Zealand, deeply influencing the Australian motorsport scene.
Chandler’s extensive career in motorsport spanned several decades, commencing as a competitor and evolving into a respected administrator and advocate for the sport.
He was part of a transformative era that raised the profile of rallying across the Asia-Pacific region.
Chandler began his journey in motorsport by participating in hillclimbs with the Northern Sports Car Club, quickly ascending to the role of Club President. He soon made his mark on the national stage as a member of the MotorSport New Zealand Executive Board, serving as President from 1977 to 1998.
As a competitor, he took part in the Rally of New Zealand every year from 1971 to 1983, and was actively involved in the New Zealand Rally Championship, where he secured multiple top-ten finishes and class wins.
Chandler was instrumental in ensuring New Zealand’s inclusion on the WRC calendar throughout the 1970s and 1980s, frequently competing in the event himself.
His fervour and professionalism have left a lasting legacy that will resonate long after his departure from the competitive scene.
Outside of the rally stages, Chandler played a critical role in fortifying connections between Australian and New Zealand rallying, creating opportunities for drivers, teams, and officials from both nations.
His contributions to rally governance helped steer the discipline’s future, always prioritising growth, safety, and the integrity of competition.
As a former FIA Vice-President for sport and President of the FIA World Rally Championship Commission, Chandler had a profound influence on the development of international rallying.
Over decades of dedicated work with the FIA, he played a pivotal role in the sport’s global expansion, receiving heartfelt tributes for his leadership and lifelong commitment.
Those fortunate enough to work alongside Morrie, including Motorsport Australia Rally Manager Alan Vaughan, recall his calm presence, keen insights, and enduring passion for the sport.
“Morrie spent periods in Australia as an FIA Steward, mentoring many of us over the years,” Vaughan reflected.
“In simple terms, Morrie’s impact on motorsport globally was vast, his contributions to New Zealand motorsport remain unmatched, and his unwavering support for the sport in Australia and its events was always evident.
“I feel privileged to have met Morrie numerous times. He was a remarkable man.”
In recognition of his services to New Zealand and international motorsport, Chandler was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 1997.
He was also honoured as President d’Honneur of MotorSport New Zealand in 1998 and received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Halberg Awards, New Zealand’s prestigious annual sports honours, in 2018.
On behalf of Motorsport Australia, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Morrie’s family, friends, colleagues, and the wider New Zealand motorsport community. He was 85.
Vale.
Compiled by SportArena.au.
Fanpage: SportArena.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
