The President of the International Motor Federation talks about his influential visit, which celebrated innovation in the field of mobility and motor sport growth
The President of the International Automobile Federation (FIA), Muhammad bin Selim, ended an official visit to Japan, stressing the strength of relations between the union and one of the most influential countries in the field of mobility and car sport.
As the supervising body of global motorsport and the Federation of Mobility Organizations around the world, the International Automobile Federation is obligated to build partnerships that push the wheel of innovation, safety and sustainability.
The Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) and its president, Masayoshi Sakaguchi, hosted this visit, which provided vital visions about Japan’s investment in smart infrastructure and the growing role of cities as angry toothes and sports events.
Japan is still a vital partner in achieving the goals of the International Motor Federation (FIA). This visit has highlighted the joint commitment of Japan and the International Automobile Federation to accelerate progress in the fields of transportation and global auto sports.
During his official visit, Bin Selim met prominent national figures, including Prime Minister Shikiro Ishiba, Koji Morovushi, Commissioner of the Japanese Sports Agency, and Heromasa Nakano, Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
Their discussions focused on the challenges and joint opportunities – starting with the development of cleaner and promotion of road safety, to expanding the scope of access to motorsport and preparing for the future of urban movement.
Speaking of his visit, Bin Salim said: “This visit was an important landmark for the International Motor Federation at a time when we strengthen our relationship with Japan – a country that still represents role models in all of the innovations of mobility and development of motorsport.”
“It was an honor for me personally to meet Prime Minister Ishiba and senior ministers, and to testify myself for the energy and commitment that move progress in this sector.”
“One of the governmental government policies to global sports activities, including four events for the World Automobile World Championship, Japan shows how an integrated approach to mobility and sports can serve society.”
Bin Salim said: “The dual role of the Japanese Motor Federation as a leader of sports and mobility is really great, as it represents more than 20 million members and hosts our championships, and I am grateful for their hospitality and support.”
Bin Salim also highlighted the importance of Mr. Akio Toyua, Chairman of the Toyota Board of Directors, as an active member of the International Automobile Federation Council, which symbolizes the close and constructive relationship between the pioneers of the auto industry in Japan and the mission of the International Federation of Global Cars.
This visit comes at a time when the sport and mobility sectors in Japan are witnessing remarkable growth and renewed monster. The Japanese Automobile Federation reports indicate that the number of licensed racing drivers has exceeded 200,000 drivers, an increase of 20% over the past five years, with the Japan Grand Prix for Formula 1 for 2025 registered the highest attendance rate since 2006.
Bin Selim quickly moved from Japan to Macau to attend the extraordinary general assembly and the annual conference of the International Automobile Federation for the year 2025, which start on Tuesday, and receive more than 500 senior representatives of the International Motor Federation in the fields of mobility and car sports from 149 countries.
