UN Tourism and FIA Reinforce Partnership to Advance Sustainable Sports Tourism

All Regions
2 Sep 2024

UN Tourism and the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), have partnered to advance Sports Tourism on a global scale.

The new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marks a step forward in the partnership between the two organisations, highlighting their mutual dedication to advancing sustainable practices and raising awareness about the positive impact of Sports Tourism on destinations. By combining expertise and influence, it aims to leverage the power of world-class sporting events to drive tourism, economic growth, and sustainability.

Our partnership with the Affiliate Member FIA is a crucial step forward in realising this potential

The MoU was signed by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sualyem and UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili during the Formula 1 Grand Prix weekend in Monza, Italy.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: "The intersection of sports and tourism offers immense potential for sustainable development, economic growth, and the promotion of cultural exchange. Our partnership with the Affiliate Member FIA is a crucial step forward in realising this potential."

Joining the Secretary-General in signing the agreement, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, said: "This partnership with UN Tourism is a testament to the FIA's unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism and social responsibility. By aligning our global initiatives with UN Tourism's mission, we are not only promoting responsible travel but also setting new benchmarks for sustainability across all FIA events. Our dedication extends beyond advocacy; we are actively implementing sustainable practices, educating future generations, and driving meaningful change in the world of sports and tourism.

UN Tourism and FIA: 40 years of collaboration

Over 40 years of Affiliate Membership with UN Tourism, the FIA has served as the leading entity in the field of global motorsports and sustainable tourism. Under Ben Sulayem's leadership, the Federation oversees some of the world's most prestigious motor racing events, including Formula 1, which draws millions of international fans and significantly boosts local tourism in host cities.

In recognition of his contributions, FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem has been appointed as UN Tourism's Ambassador for Sustainable Tourism, in the category of "Sport". This appointment highlights his dedication to integrating sustainability into motorsport events and activities, promoting initiatives that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and enhancing the global tourism landscape.
He said: "I am honoured on behalf of the FIA to be appointed as an UN Tourism Ambassador for Sustainable Tourism. The FIA has been a trendsetter in this field across sport, mobility and tourism. Together with our partners at UN Tourism, I will ensure that the federation continues to focus on delivering vital sustainability solutions for all."

Sports Tourism: Growing Relevance

The collaboration between UN Tourism and the FIA will contribute to advancing the understanding of Sports Tourism's potential. With an approximate value of $609 billion, and with a 17.5% annual growth rate, it is one of the fastest-growing sectors within tourism, with the tourism and sports sectors closely linked via their impact both socially and culturally and their roles in economic diversification and social development.

As UN Tourism continues to promote this dynamic field, the upcoming 3rd World Sports Tourism Congress (Madrid, Spain, 28-29 November 2024) will serve as a key platform for advancing these discussions. The FIA is expected to play an active role, bringing its expertise to the forefront of debates on sustainability, economic development, and global collaboration in Sports Tourism.