UN Tourism, FIA Strengthen Ties to Promote Sustainable Sports Tourism

On September 2, 2024, UN Tourism and the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) formalized a renewed collaboration aimed at enhancing sustainable sports tourism worldwide. The newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signifies a shared commitment to utilizing the influence of major sporting events to drive economic growth, tourism, and sustainability efforts across destinations.

The agreement, signed by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili during the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Monza, Italy, represents a strategic partnership between two influential organizations. Zurab Pololikashvili emphasized the vast potential of combining sports and tourism to foster sustainable development and cultural exchange. He highlighted the importance of this partnership in achieving those goals.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem echoed this sentiment, affirming the organization's dedication to promoting sustainable tourism and implementing responsible practices at all FIA events. He noted that the collaboration goes beyond advocacy, focusing on real actions that drive sustainability in sports and tourism, aligning with the mission and objectives of UN Tourism.

With over four decades of cooperation, the FIA has played a pivotal role as an Affiliate Member of UN Tourism, particularly in the realm of motorsports and sustainable tourism. Under Ben Sulayem's leadership, the FIA has overseen some of the most prestigious motor racing events globally, such as Formula 1, which significantly contributes to local tourism in host cities. As a recognition of his efforts, Ben Sulayem has been appointed as an Ambassador for Sustainable Tourism for UN Tourism, underlining his commitment to integrating sustainable practices into motorsport.

The partnership between UN Tourism and the FIA is set to further enhance understanding of sports tourism's growing impact. Currently valued at approximately $609 billion with an annual growth rate of 17.5%, sports tourism is one of the fastest-expanding sectors within the tourism industry, playing a vital role in economic diversification and social development.

Looking ahead, the 3rd World Sports Tourism Congress, scheduled for November 28-29, 2024, in Madrid, Spain, will serve as an important forum for advancing these discussions. The FIA is expected to be a key participant, contributing its expertise on sustainability, economic growth, and global cooperation in sports tourism.