Tourexpi
UN Tourism and FIA Reinforce Partnership to Advance Sustainable Sports Tourism
The
new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marks a step forward in the partnership
between the two organisations, highlighting their mutual dedication to
advancing sustainable practices and raising awareness about the positive impact
of Sports Tourism on destinations. By combining expertise and influence, it
aims to leverage the power of world-class sporting events to drive tourism,
economic growth, and sustainability.
The
MoU was signed by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sualyem and UN Tourism
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.
UN
Tourism and FIA: 40 years of collaboration
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.
He
said: "I am honoured on behalf of the FIA to be appointed as an 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."
Sports
Tourism: Growing Relevance
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.
Image
Credit: © UN Tourism
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