The FIA, in collaboration with the Royal Automobile Association of Thailand (RAAT), hosted the FIA Asia Pacific Congress 2025 in Chiang Mai last week - part of the regular FIA Sport Regional Congress (SRC) calendar.
The event gathered over 90 delegates from 31 member clubs (ASNs) across the region, uniting representatives from motorsport, mobility, and safety sectors to discuss the future of the sport in Asia and the Pacific.
Here are the five key takeaways from a week that reinforced the region’s growing role in the FIA’s global roadmap.
1. Asia Pacific emerges as a powerful frontier for global motorsport
The FIA recognized the Asia Pacific (APAC) region as a crucial frontier for motorsport growth and innovation. Once considered peripheral to the sport’s global presence, APAC is now central to the FIA’s strategic direction — from grassroots participation to international racing programs. The congress highlighted the increasing influence of Asian circuits, promoters, and national motorsport bodies in shaping the future of the sport.
2. New FIA-sanctioned programmes strengthen mobility and community engagement
A major focus of the congress was the expansion of FIA-backed initiatives across urban centers in the region. Projects such as the Safe and Sustainable Mobility Grants Programme and Star Rating for Schools (SR4S) are being implemented in collaboration with local governments and non-profits. These programs aim to make city mobility safer for children and commuters while building stronger, data-led frameworks for sustainable transport development.
3. Safety and sustainability drive the FIA’s regional agenda
Safety and sustainability remain the cornerstones of the FIA’s long-term mission in APAC. Discussions centered on developing EV charging infrastructure, clean fuel pilot programs, and government partnerships to accelerate progress toward net-zero emissions.
The congress also renewed the “Heads Up!” campaign and introduced the “Safe Mobility 4 All & 4 Life” seminar, encouraging road safety awareness at all levels. Delegates explored how track-to-road technology from data analytics to connected vehicle systems can improve everyday transport. Examples included pilot mobility programs in Bangkok, Manila, and Kuala Lumpur, where motorsport-inspired innovations are already influencing road safety solutions.
4. Leadership for the next chapter: Joe Ferreria appointed as FIA Region II President
Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) President Joe Ferreria was elected as the new FIA Region II President, succeeding long-serving regional leaders. Ferreria brings over four decades of experience in the financial services industry, along with deep involvement in Philippine motorsport governance. His appointment marks a renewed commitment to building collaborative frameworks across Asian and Pacific national sporting authorities.
5. Making motorsport more accessible: the FIA Affordable Cross Car Project
The congress also emphasized inclusivity and affordability in motorsport. The FIA Affordable Cross Car Project was presented as a key model for accessible competition - introducing a low-cost, locally sourced vehicle platform designed to lower entry barriers for aspiring racers. By encouraging national clubs to adopt and adapt the project, the FIA hopes to strengthen grassroots participation and uncover the next generation of regional talent.
The FIA Asia Pacific Congress 2025 showcased how the region is evolving from a developing motorsport landscape into a hub for innovation, safety, and sustainability. With continued investment in people, technology, and mobility programs, APAC is positioning itself not just as a participant in global motorsport but as a driving force shaping its future.
