UN Tourism and the FIA have entered into a partnership to enhance global sports tourism, aiming to boost economic growth and sustainability through world-class sporting events
The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) and the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) have formalised their collaboration to advance sports tourism on a global scale. This partnership, marked by the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), underscores their shared commitment to promoting sustainable practices and leveraging the power of sporting events to foster tourism, economic growth, and environmental responsibility.
The MoU was officially signed by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili during the Formula 1 Grand Prix weekend in Monza, Italy. This agreement represents a significant step forward in their collaboration, with both leaders expressing their dedication to harnessing the intersection of sports and tourism for sustainable development and cultural exchange.
Zurab Pololikashvili, speaking on the partnership, highlighted the immense potential for sports tourism to contribute to sustainable development and economic growth. "Our partnership with the Affiliate Member FIA is a crucial step forward in realising this potential," he stated. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem echoed these sentiments, emphasising the FIA's commitment to promoting sustainable tourism and social responsibility. "By aligning our global initiatives with UNWTO's mission, we are not only promoting responsible travel but also setting new benchmarks for sustainability across all FIA events," said Sulayem.
The partnership builds on over 40 years of collaboration between UNWTO and the FIA, with the latter serving as a leading entity in global motorsports and sustainable tourism. Under the leadership of Ben Sulayem, the FIA oversees prestigious motor racing events such as Formula 1, which attract millions of international fans and significantly contribute to local tourism in host cities.
In recognition of his efforts, Ben Sulayem has been appointed as UNWTO’s Ambassador for Sustainable Tourism in the "Sport" category. This honour acknowledges his dedication to integrating sustainability into motorsport events and promoting initiatives that align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). "I am honoured on behalf of the FIA to be appointed as a UNWTO Ambassador for Sustainable Tourism," Sulayem remarked, pledging to continue the FIA's focus on delivering vital sustainability solutions across sport, mobility, and tourism.
Sports tourism is a rapidly growing sector within the broader tourism industry, valued at approximately $609 billion with an annual growth rate of 17.5 percent. The sector plays a crucial role in economic diversification and social development, with the tourism and sports industries closely linked in their social, cultural, and economic impacts.
As part of their ongoing efforts to promote this dynamic field, UNWTO is organising the 3rd World Sports Tourism Congress, set to take place in Madrid, Spain, on 28-29 November 2024. The FIA is expected to play an active role in this event, contributing its expertise to discussions on sustainability, economic development, and global collaboration in sports tourism.
This renewed partnership between UNWTO and the FIA is poised to set new standards in sustainable sports tourism, driving both industries towards a more responsible and prosperous future.