Ben Sulayem highlights passion as driving force behind progress in global automotive industry

Business

Ben Sulayem highlights passion as driving force behind progress in global automotive industry

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has underscored the crucial role of passion, safety, and sustainability in shaping the future of the automotive and mobility sectors during his keynote appearance at the SEMA Show 2025 in Las Vegas, USA.

Making history as the first non-American ever to open the SEMA Show, Ben Sulayem used the global platform to advocate for responsible innovation and stronger international collaboration to advance mobility solutions.

Organised annually by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) — an FIA Member Club — the event is the world’s leading trade show for the automotive aftermarket, attracting over 160,000 industry professionals and participants from more than 140 countries. The exhibition showcases cutting-edge automotive technology, performance upgrades, and sustainability-focused innovations.

Speaking as both FIA President and lifelong car enthusiast, Ben Sulayem highlighted the unifying role of passion in driving creativity and growth across the automotive world.

“To be a part of the automobile industry, you need a passion for it,” he said. “At my first SEMA Show in 2016, I saw the energy, the teamwork, and the ability to tackle issues together. That same spirit continues to define this community, one that values innovation, craftsmanship, and the freedom to create.”

During his visit, Ben Sulayem also met with members of the U.S. Congress, global OEM representatives, and motorsport figures, accompanied by SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. Together, they discussed the FIA’s global mission to promote safety, sustainability, and innovation within both motorsport and mobility sectors.

The FIA and SEMA reaffirmed their strategic partnership during the event, pledging continued cooperation on advancing vehicle safety standards, promoting sustainable automotive technologies, and protecting the global right to modify vehicles within responsible regulatory frameworks.

Reflecting on the collaboration, Ben Sulayem said:

“I am a part of SEMA, and they are a part of the FIA. We share the same commitment to advancing safety, sustainability, and responsible innovation across the automotive and mobility sectors.”

The partnership underlines a shared vision to ensure that car culture, creativity, and innovation continue to flourish alongside environmental responsibility and future mobility goals.