Meta Platforms has expanded its board of directors, bringing in three influential figures with expertise in technology, sports, and global business. Among the new appointees is Dana White, the CEO of Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and a longtime supporter of President-elect Donald Trump.
Joining him are Charlie Songhurst, an investor and former Microsoft executive, and John Elkann, CEO of Exor, a holding company with stakes in Ferrari, Stellantis, and luxury brands like Christian Louboutin.
Meta’s Strategic Board Expansion
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg highlighted the strategic importance of these appointments, stating:
“Dana, John, and Charlie bring deep expertise that will help us seize the massive opportunities ahead in AI, wearables, and the future of human connection.”
White’s appointment is particularly notable due to his strong ties to Trump. He has been a vocal supporter of the former president, speaking at the Republican National Convention in 2016, 2020, and 2024. Zuckerberg and White have also developed a personal connection in recent years, bonded by a shared passion for mixed martial arts (MMA).
In 2022, Zuckerberg attended a UFC fight at White’s invitation, and UFC later shared a viral photo of the two embracing in front of the Octagon.
Who Are the Other New Board Members?
- John Elkann: As CEO of Exor, he oversees investments in Stellantis, Ferrari, and multiple European companies. He also chairs the Agnelli Foundation, which focuses on education and philanthropy.
- Charlie Songhurst: A former Microsoft executive, Songhurst has been working with Meta’s AI advisory group since May, helping shape the company’s long-term artificial intelligence strategy.
Meta’s Relationship with Trump and Republican Influence
Zuckerberg’s decision to bring in White and elevate other pro-Trump executives suggests that Meta is preparing for a possible second Trump presidency.
Recently, Meta promoted Joel Kaplan, a prominent Republican policy executive, to global affairs head. The company also made a $1 million donation to Trump’s inaugural fund, a significant shift from its previous stance on political contributions.
What This Means for Meta’s Future
With AI, digital wearables, and content regulation at the forefront of Meta’s expansion, these appointments could shape the company’s long-term vision. White’s addition to the board also signals Meta’s growing interest in sports entertainment and live content, while Songhurst’s AI expertise will likely play a key role in Meta’s artificial intelligence advancements.
Meta’s decision to align more closely with Trump allies could also have implications for its content moderation policies and its stance on political free speech in the coming years.
As the company navigates an evolving digital landscape, these new board members will be instrumental in shaping Meta’s next chapter.
