Fourth edition of FIA Immersion Programme Empowers Emerging Leaders to Drive the Future of Motorsport

The fourth edition of the FIA Immersion Programme, co-funded by the FIA Foundation, successfully wrapped up, bringing together 17 emerging motorsport leaders from around the world. Representing Clubs from diverse countries such as Argentina, Armenia, Bahrain, Bulgaria, Indonesia, Jordan, Korea, Namibia, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Paraguay, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Syrian Arab Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, and Turkey, participants gained valuable knowledge and skills to strengthen their respective organisations and contribute to the global motorsport community.

The programme kicked off in Paris on September 3, where the group was introduced to the FIA Paris Headquarters and its key departments. They explored the work of the FIA Mobility and Communications & Public Affairs teams, focusing on the FIA’s role in promoting safe, sustainable, and accessible motorsport and mobility on a global scale.

In Geneva, the attendees visited the FIA Remote Operations Centre (ROC) and met with the Secretary General for Sport and other FIA experts. They learned about key member-focused programmes such as FIA University, Motorsport Funding, Motorsport in a Box, and Affordable Cross Cars, equipping them with tools to advancemotorsport in their regions.

A highlight of the programme was the hands-on experience gained during the Rallye du Mont Blanc on September 5-6, where participants worked alongside the event’s operational team. This real-world exposure provided them with insights into organising and running top-level sporting events, knowledge they can now apply in their home countries.

The second half of the programme focused on engaging with the FIA’s Legal, Sporting, and Technical & Safety departments in Geneva, offering a comprehensive overview of the safety, legal, and regulatory aspects of motorsport. The participants also explored FIA’s sustainability, diversity, and inclusion initiatives, which are essential for the sport’s future. Site visits to the FIA logistics hub in Valleiry and the FIA Homologation Centre further enriched their understanding of motorsport operations.

The FIA Commercial team provided insights on building stronger local partnerships, while discussions on introducing new motorsport disciplines in their respective countries opened doors for future opportunities.

The programme concluded with each participant completing a tailored development plan to implement within their Clubs, ensuring they can effectively apply the knowledge and strategies they acquired. On the last day, the group was presented with certificates of participation by FIA Senate President Carmelo Sanz de Barros and FIA Secretary General for Sport Valerio Iachizzi.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem praised the programme’s impact: “As we conclude this fourth edition of the FIA Immersion Programme, I am proud to see that the participants have developed not only a deeper understanding of the FIA’s global ecosystem but also the skills to make a real impact in their Clubs and communities. I congratulate them on their achievements and am confident they will shape the future of our sport with lasting contributions.”

Since its launch in October 2022, the FIA Immersion Programme has enhanced the skills and knowledge of FIA Member Clubs, fostering a global culture of learning and development in motorsport.