UN Tourism and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), have partnered to advance Sports Tourism on a global scale. The newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) represents a significant advancement in the collaboration between UN Tourism and FIA, underscoring their shared commitment to promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness of the positive effects of Sports Tourism on destinations. By merging their expertise and influence, the partnership seeks to harness the power of world-class sporting events to boost tourism, foster economic growth, and enhance sustainability.
The MoU was signed by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and UNWTO 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.
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.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: “I am honoured on behalf of the FIA to be appointed as a 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.”
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.
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