What is the FIA?

What is the FIA?

The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) is a non-profit organization that serves as the governing body for world motor sport and also acts as a federation of the world's leading motoring organizations. Founded in 1904 and headquartered in Paris, France, the FIA is a global authority on motorsport and mobility.

The Sport Division

The FIA's Sport Division is responsible for regulating and sanctioning numerous international motorsport championships. Its core functions include setting and enforcing technical and sporting regulations for vehicles, overseeing the conduct of competitors, and ensuring the highest standards of safety. The FIA's history in motorsport includes inaugurating the first Formula One World Championship in 1950. The organization oversees a wide range of racing series, from circuit racing to rallying, including:

• FIA Formula One World Championship
• FIA World Rally Championship (WRC)
• FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC)
• ABB FIA Formula E World Championship
• FIA World Rallycross Championship

The Mobility Division

The Mobility Division represents the interests of motorists, the automotive industry, and motoring clubs worldwide. This division's mission is to promote road safety, sustainable mobility, and protect the rights of road users. The FIA's global network includes member clubs representing millions of motorists in 149 countries. A key initiative is the FIA Foundation, a charity focused on global road safety and environmental sustainability. The foundation has supported programs in over 80 countries, influencing significant investments to improve road safety infrastructure globally.

The FIA's Role in Motorsport

The FIA's influence extends to all aspects of motorsport, from developing safety innovations like the Halo device in Formula 1 to setting technical specifications for rally cars. The organization's commitment to safety has driven advancements that have saved countless lives, both on the track and on public roads. By ensuring a level playing field through clear regulations and a focus on fair play, the FIA maintains the integrity and excitement of competitions like the WRC, where driver skill and car durability are tested in real-world environments.

Global Impact

Beyond motorsport, the FIA works to address major mobility challenges such as air quality and traffic congestion. Through its various campaigns and partnerships, it advocates for policies that promote clean and efficient transportation systems. This dual role—as a governing body for racing and an advocate for motorists—underscores its unique position and influence in the global automotive landscape.