The FIA World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) gathered for its inaugural meeting of 2025 on February 26, with President Mohammed Ben Sulayem leading the agenda. Participants from all over the globe joined in via video conference, marking a significant step forward as the organization kicks off its Vision 2030 initiative. The President opened the session by lauding the achievements of 2024 and setting expansive goals for the new year, particularly in improving accessibility and ensuring regulations that bolster both safety and excitement in the sport.
Kicking off the session, President Ben Sulayem acknowledged the groundwork laid down in the previous year, emphasizing the importance of innovation and strong partnerships to keep motorsport relevant and exhilarating. “In 2025, we’re taking motorsport to new heights—it’s about pushing boundaries and continuously improving,” he stressed. This year’s strategy includes a robust focus on nurturing the seven FIA World Championships by investing in the training and support of race officials. It’s a nod to the past while looking firmly towards an electrifying future.
“The heart and soul of our sport lie with the volunteers and officials,” President Ben Sulayem noted. He highlighted the success of the recent FIA Officials Summit, marking the first major educational event since 2020. It’s clear that the Council is geared up for a 2025 season that promises to be safer and more exhilarating than ever before.
Respect within motorsport was another critical theme addressed by World Council members. Upholding sportsmanship and professional conduct extends beyond the track, aiming to set examples for fans and athletes alike. The push to eradicate online abuse is a significant part of this effort, with multiple stakeholders joining forces to combat digital harassment.
In terms of race regulations, one of the standout decisions from the meeting involves the iconic Monaco Grand Prix. The Council approved a new requirement mandating a two-stop strategy, regardless of weather conditions, aimed at enhancing the spectacle. This move includes a stipulation that drivers use at least two different tire compounds in dry races.
Vision 2030 was another focal point of the meeting. Approved by WMSC members, this comprehensive strategy aims to future-proof global motorsport by focusing on accessibility, innovation, and sustainability. Under the guidance of Secretary General for Sport Valerio Iachizzi, Vision 2030 outlines a detailed plan crafted to fit the ever-changing landscape of motorsport.
This vision is structured around five main pillars: accessibility and diversity, innovation and education, sustainability, financial growth, and strengthening the FIA brand. The organization aims to make motorsport more inclusive globally, push technological boundaries, and maintain its leadership in environmental sustainability.
Members of the WMSC also took the opportunity to review the President’s Development Fund. This initiative aims to provide long-term support to Member Clubs, focusing on projects that champion accessibility and innovation in fields such as eSports and karting.
The Council also addressed the complexity of current Commission and Committee structures, acknowledging the need for streamlined processes to enhance decision-making. A working group will address these simplifications with a proposal expected in their June meeting.
In related announcements, the Council revealed regulatory updates across several championships. ABB was confirmed as the charger supplier for Formula E’s GEN4 era starting from 2026. Additionally, changes to rally and GT racing formats aim to enhance competition and viewer engagement.
Wrapping up discussions, the Council set dates for future meetings with locations including Macau and Tashkent. With a packed agenda and a clear vision, 2025 promises to be a foundational year in the ongoing evolution of motorsport.
