FIA to continue meeting in Macau through 2027

Galaxy Macau has signed a three-year strategic partnership with the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) to host the organization’s annual assembly in Macau through 2027, following the successful debut of the FIA Conference in the city last week.

“Under this agreement, Galaxy Macau will serve as an official global partner of the FIA and venue host for the FIA Conference in both 2026 and 2027,” Galaxy Macau announced, adding, “This global alliance reflects Galaxy Macau’s unwavering commitment to elevating Macau’s international sports landscape, in alignment with the Macao SAR government’s vision to position Macau as a ‘City of Sports.’”

The FIA’s Extraordinary General Assembly took place last week for the first time in Macau.

The four-day event featured 446 FIA delegates representing 198 FIA member organizations from 139 countries.

The multiple meetings and conference events, including the gathering of the World Motor Sport Council, took place at the Galaxy International Convention Center.

“Our time here in Macau has been inspiring and truly productive. This annual conference is an opportunity for us to bring members together from across our global federation, and I am delighted we have been able to host them in such an exceptional venue. My thanks to Galaxy Macau, and I look forward to our continued partnership,” said Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA president.

Representing Galaxy Entertainment Group, Kevin Kelley, chief operating officer, added, “Galaxy Macau is profoundly honored to support this prestigious conference, bringing together visionary minds, dedicated professionals, and innovative leaders shaping the future of mobility worldwide. With our world-class MICE facilities and award-winning hotels, we are committed to providing an unparalleled experience for delegates while strengthening Macau’s position as an important hub for the business of sports.”

Comprising a variety of programs, the conference featured discussions addressing critical industry topics, including safety and sustainability in motorsport and mobility, regional perspectives versus global ambition, and AI and data analytics in the future of mobility.

Among the decisions made, the FIA welcomed SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) as a full member, with Ben Sulayem noting the relevance of the group in U.S. mobility services, tourism, and automotive advocacy.

During the presentation and publication of the 2024 Activity Report, the president noted the financial health achieved by the FIA, adding, “I am proud to say that for the first time in eight years, the FIA is financially secure. We are in a strong position to support our Member Clubs in vital areas such as grassroots initiatives, innovation, and sustainability. This is a pivotal moment for our Federation.”

The report noted an operating result of 4.7 million euros (MOP43.9 million) in 2024, the FIA’s strongest financial result since 2018.

Malcolm Wilson OBE elected deputy president

Another significant decision to emerge from the Extraordinary General Assembly in Macau was the election of Malcolm Wilson OBE as FIA Deputy President for Sport, by an overwhelming majority of FIA members.

Wilson has been a leading figure in British motorsport for decades. He is the Managing Director of M-Sport Ltd, which has operated Ford’s World Rally program since 1997.
Under Wilson’s leadership, M-Sport has had considerable success, including winning the FIA World Rally Championship for Manufacturers in 2006 and 2007. In 2017, they won the Manufacturers’ crown for a third time, as well as back-to-back Driver and Co-driver Championships in 2017 and 2018.

Wilson also worked as a technical partner for Bentley Motors, leading the design and development of the Continental GT3 race car, and in electric motorsport for Jaguar in the IPACE eTROPHY.