Sports & Championship

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), has met with senior government officials in the Czech Republic to discuss cooperation on motorsport development, road safety, innovation, and sustainable mobility.

The high-level meetings took place in Prague and underscore the longstanding relationship between the FIA and the Czech Republic, one of Europe's most established automotive and motorsport nations.

Meetings Held With Czech Republic Leaders

During his visit, Ben Sulayem met with Petr Pavel, Andrej Babiš, and Boris Šťastný.

Discussions focused on a range of strategic priorities, including:

1. Road safety improvements
2. Sustainable transportation initiatives
3. Innovation in mobility
4. Grassroots motorsport development
5. Expanding participation and accessibility in motorsport

The meetings form part of the FIA's broader efforts to collaborate with governments worldwide on advancing mobility and strengthening the future of motorsport.

FIA Highlights Shared Vision for Mobility and Innovation

Speaking after the meetings, Ben Sulayem praised the Czech Republic's contribution to both the automotive and motorsport sectors.

He noted that the country continues to demonstrate how mobility, technological innovation, and sport can work together to create positive social and economic outcomes.

The FIA President also expressed appreciation for the constructive dialogue with Czech leaders and reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening cooperation in support of safer and more sustainable mobility solutions.

Road Safety Remains a Key Priority

A major focus of the discussions centred on road safety and the FIA's ongoing efforts to reduce traffic-related fatalities and injuries worldwide.

Ben Sulayem highlighted several data-driven initiatives developed by the FIA, including:

1. The FIA Road Safety Index
2. The FIA Driver Safety Index

These programmes are designed to provide governments, organisations, and road users with measurable tools to evaluate, benchmark, and improve road safety performance.

The initiatives support global efforts to enhance road user protection while promoting evidence-based policymaking and safer transportation systems.

Autoklub Czech Republic Recognised for Grassroots Motorsport Development

The FIA President also commended the work of Autoklub České republiky for its contributions to motorsport accessibility, education, and youth development.

The organisation plays a central role in promoting participation across all levels of motorsport while supporting talent development and community engagement.

Its president, Jan Šťovíček, remains actively involved within the FIA through several leadership positions, including membership of the World Motor Sport Council and the FIA Foundation Board.

FIA-Funded Programmes Help Develop Future Racing Talent

Supported through grants from the FIA and the FIA Foundation, Autoklub Czech Republic has launched several initiatives aimed at nurturing the next generation of motorsport competitors.

One of the most successful programmes is the Karting Academy, an educational initiative focused on developing driving skills, technical knowledge, and racing talent among young participants.

According to organisers:

1. More than 1,000 children have participated in the programme
2. Several graduates now compete in international motorsport events

Another initiative, RacerBuggy 160, provides autocross training opportunities for children aged between five and eight years old.

Over the past seven years, more than 3,000 children have completed the programme, helping introduce young participants to competitive motorsport in a structured and safe environment.

Investment in Youth Participation Strengthens Czech Motorsport

Ben Sulayem praised the Czech motorsport authority's continued investment in youth development, national championships, and karting programmes.

Industry observers note that grassroots initiatives play a critical role in identifying future talent while ensuring the long-term sustainability of motorsport.

Commenting on the impact of FIA support, Jan Šťovíček said the funding has enabled the organisation to expand opportunities for young drivers and strengthen motorsport participation throughout the country.

He added that the grants have helped create pathways for emerging talent while supporting broader engagement with the sport.

FIA Continues Global Engagement Programme

The Prague visit forms part of the FIA President's ongoing programme of engagement with governments, national member clubs, and key stakeholders around the world.

Through these initiatives, the FIA aims to advance its global mission of promoting:

1. Safe mobility
2. Sustainable transportation
3. Accessible motorsport participation
4. Innovation across the mobility sector

As the organisation continues to work with national authorities and industry partners, officials say collaboration will remain essential in addressing future mobility challenges while supporting the continued growth and development of motorsport worldwide.

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