Currently, as Head of Partnerships and Race Locations at Extreme E, a pioneering motorsport series focused on electric (and soon hydrogen) off-road racing, Phelan is responsible for crafting and implementing effective partnership strategies, as well as working closely with tourism boards, local governments, and private investors to identify new race locations worldwide.
Before this, Phelan served as International Head of Strategy and Consulting at Nielsen Sports, where he provided high-level strategic advice to major sports organisations and brands, with an impressive portfolio including FIFA, the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the Premier League, top European football clubs, World Athletics, and leading brands like Heineken and PepsiCo. His expertise covered partnership strategy, sponsorship sales, and innovative business growth tactics.
Phelan’s early career includes significant roles in the public and legal sectors. He worked at HM Treasury, advising government ministers on important policy and strategy matters, and practiced law at a prestigious City law firm.
Outside of his professional career, Phelan is a decorated athlete. He represented Team GB at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympic Games, where he earned both a Gold and Bronze medal in rowing. In addition to his Olympic success, he is also a three-time World Champion in the sport.
