The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) takes a significant step forward today by partnering with UNESCO’s Fit for Life coalition, reinforcing its commitment to eradicating racism in the world of sports. The FIA, known globally for its role in motor sport governance and its work with mobility organizations, joins forces with UNESCO through the Fit for Life pledge to intensify its already robust efforts against online abuse in sports through its United Against Online Abuse (UAOA) initiative.
Unveiled officially back in December 2024 at the 4th UNESCO Global Forum Against Racism and Discrimination in Barcelona, the Fit for Life Network Against Racism gathers an impressive alliance. This includes political, sports, and charitable entities like La Liga, the Barça Foundation, and the RISE network, all eager to tackle racism in sports head-on.
The partnership perfectly aligns with the goals of FIA’s UAOA campaign, furthering a shared resolve toward an inclusive, secure, and equitable sporting environment. Spanish Olympic sprinter Aauri Bokesa expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: “Joining the Fit for Life Network Against Racism is a thrilling prospect. It’s a fantastic chance to work alongside UNESCO, fellow athletes, and organisations like the FIA to combat racism both in and beyond the sporting arena. This platform empowers me to advocate for inclusion, equity, and safety in sports.”
This new alliance will see UAOA lending its cutting-edge research skills to UNESCO’s global coalition of UN member states, equipping them with crucial insights and data-driven approaches to address racism in sports. Alarmingly, the UAOA’s Online Abuse in Sport Barometer 2025 report highlighted an intensifying crisis, noting that half of all abuse aimed at athletes was either misogynistic or racist, marking a rise from 2023.
Partnering with UNESCO offers an unparalleled chance to craft and implement impactful global policies, aiming for substantial change and promoting inclusivity within the sport’s realm.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the UAOA Founder and FIA President, remarked: “Collaborating with UNESCO under the Fit for Life Network is a profound honor. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in our dedication to nurturing inclusivity, respect, and equality in sports and society. As founding members, we are proud to contribute UAOA’s expertise in combating online abuse, an issue with widespread implications for individuals and communities.
By merging our knowledge and resources, the Fit for Life Network Against Racism is poised to drive genuine, substantial change. This initiative transcends the confines of sports, fostering an environment where racism, discrimination, and prejudice find no acceptance. Together, we aim to raise awareness, champion education, and take definitive actions to dismantle harmful stereotypes and behaviors.”
Philipp Müller-Wirth, Chief of UNESCO’s Sport Section, added: “It’s a great pleasure for UNESCO to have the backing of the United Against Online Abuse campaign as we kick off the Fit for Life Network Against Racism. We’re eager to work closely with the UAOA, and their expertise in confronting online abuse will be invaluable as we devise effective strategies to tackle racism in sports.”
The Fit for Life Network Against Racism is a trailblazing initiative leveraging sport’s transformative potential to confront systemic racism and racial discrimination. The network unites a wide array of partners, from NGOs to athletes and sports bodies, to foster the creation of inclusive, equitable sports policies and collaborate on education, advocacy, and tangible actions.
Founded by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the United Against Online Abuse (UAOA) campaign is a research-driven coalition focused on combating online abuse in sports. Supported by the FIA Foundation, UAOA has been recognized with the Coalition for Peace award from Peace and Sport, rallying sports federations, national governments, regulatory entities, and tech platforms to chase regulatory and behavior shifts essential in curbing the rise of online harassment and hate speech.
To date, the UAOA coalition has garnered endorsements from countries like Greece, France, and Australia, alongside organizations such as the International Esports Federation and Peace and Sport Monaco, among others.
For media enquiries, please reach out to UAOA Communications Co-ordinator Omar Sharif at [email protected].
The FIA serves as the authoritative body for world motorsport and a federation for mobility organizations globally. Established in 1904, with offices spanning Paris, London, and Geneva, the FIA is a non-profit entity dedicated to pioneering innovation and endorsing safety, sustainability, and equality across motorsport and mobility. It connects 245 Member Organizations over five continents, representing countless road users, motorsport professionals, and volunteers. The FIA formulates and enforces motorsport regulations, including those for seven FIA World Championships, ensuring global competitions are safe and just for all participants.
