Ilham Aliyev and Mohammed Ben Sulayem discuss motorsport, mobility and future cooperation with the FIA
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev met with Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) President Mohammed Ben Sulayem in Baku as the city marked 10 years of Formula 1 racing on its streets.
The meeting took place during the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix and focused on Azerbaijan’s role in international motorsport, its development as a sporting destination and opportunities to strengthen cooperation with the FIA.
Baku has become a distinctive stop on the international motorsport calendar, with its city-centre circuit attracting Formula 1 fans and visitors from around the world.
The discussions also covered mobility and its role in supporting economic growth and connectivity. Road safety and sustainable transport were highlighted as Azerbaijan continues to develop its infrastructure and international connections.
“It was a pleasure to meet with His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev and discuss our shared ambitions for the continued development of motorsport and mobility in Azerbaijan,” said Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
He also highlighted the decade of Formula 1 racing in Baku and the role major sporting events can play in connecting communities and showcasing countries internationally.
Beyond motorsport, Ben Sulayem said the FIA would continue working with governments and its Member Clubs, including the Azerbaijan Automobile Federation, to support safer, more accessible and sustainable mobility.
The FIA President’s visit comes as the federation continues to strengthen its engagement across the region through its network of Member Clubs and partners. The Azerbaijan Automobile Federation is led by President Anar Alakbarov.
The FIA is also focused on expanding motorsport participation and strengthening pathways from grassroots competition to the highest levels of the sport, alongside its wider work on road safety, sustainable mobility and accessibility.
Azerbaijan’s location between Europe and Asia and its continued investment in transport and infrastructure provide opportunities for further cooperation across both areas of the FIA’s work.
The meeting formed part of Ben Sulayem’s programme in Azerbaijan, bringing together government, motorsport and mobility stakeholders to discuss the development of FIA activities in the country and the wider region.
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