FIA launch comprehensive new project to improve critical issue

The FIA has launched what it has called a "comprehensive" package for the training and development of hundreds of motorsport officials. 

Throughout the coming year, three dedicated programmes will be introduced to support race director, steward, and clerk of the course roles at national, regional, and international levels of series under the FIA's remit. 

With over 550 officials from 103 countries joining the new training programmes, the idea is to create a development pathway for officials from their national FIA member club (such as Motorsport UK for Great Britain) to international competition. 

In the programmes, developed in collaboration with the new FIA officials department, members are trained to "refresh their knowledge, promote best practice and ensure alignment with current regulatory standards" whilst also "aiming to elevate officiating quality, strengthen consistency across competitions and embed a culture of continuous professional development and high performance across the FIA officiating network."

Speaking about the changes, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem praised the "important step."

“Last year, we took an important step forward with the launch of the FIA Officials Department," he said.

"It strengthened how we support and empower officials and recognise their significant contribution. 

"These training programmes reflect our ongoing commitment to supporting officials, because when we grow our officials, we grow our sport."

Matteo Perini, the FIA Sport officials manager, added further detail about the crafting of the new packages.

"These programmes have been carefully crafted to provide motor sport officials across the world with the tools and resources they need to fulfil their roles and continue officiating at the highest level," he said.

"By strengthening their knowledge, confidence and decision‑making capabilities, we are investing in the long‑term excellence and consistency of our global officiating community."