FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s recent official visit to Japan has underscored the strong relationship between the global motorsports governing body and a leading nation in both motorsport and mobility innovation.1 The visit, hosted by the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) and its President Masayoshi Sakaguchi, showcased Japan’s significant investments in smart infrastructure and its forward-thinking approach to urban mobility and sporting events.2
During his trip, Ben Sulayem engaged with prominent Japanese figures, including Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Commissioner of the Japan Sports Agency Koji Murofushi, and Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Hiromasa Nakano.3 These discussions centered on shared objectives and challenges, ranging from advancing cleaner technologies and enhancing road safety to expanding accessibility in motorsport and preparing for the future of urban transportation.4
“This has been an important milestone for the FIA as we deepen our relationship with Japan, a country that continues to lead by example in both mobility innovation and motorsport development,” said Ben Sulayem. He further emphasized Japan’s integrated approach, citing its transformative government policies and world-class sporting activities, including four FIA World Championship events, as exemplary models for serving society through mobility and sport.5 Ben Sulayem also acknowledged the JAF’s remarkable dual role as a sport and mobility leader, representing over 20 million members.6
JAF President Masayoshi Sakaguchi expressed honor in welcoming Ben Sulayem, reaffirming Japan’s commitment as a proud member of the FIA’s global community dedicated to advancing mobility and motorsport.7 He stressed that continued collaboration is vital for driving innovation, safety, and sustainability in these fields, expressing confidence in a stronger partnership with lasting global impact.8
The significance of Akio Toyoda, Chairman of Toyota, as an active member of the FIA Senate was also highlighted by Ben Sulayem, symbolizing the close ties between Japan’s automotive industry leaders and the FIA’s worldwide mission.9 The visit comes amid a period of growth for Japan’s motorsport and mobility sectors, with the JAF reporting over 200,000 licensed racing drivers—a 20 percent increase in five years—and the 2025 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix achieving its highest attendance since 2006.10
Following his impactful visit to Japan, Ben Sulayem is now in Macau for the 2025 FIA Extraordinary General Assembly and Annual Conference, an event set to gather over 500 senior FIA delegates from 149 countries.11
FAQs
Q1: What were the key themes of discussion during FIA President Ben Sulayem’s visit to Japan?
A1: Discussions focused on common challenges and opportunities such as advancing cleaner technologies, enhancing road safety, expanding access to motorsport, and preparing for the future of urban mobility.12
Q2: How is Japan demonstrating growth in its motorsport sector?
A2: Japan’s motorsport sector is seeing significant growth, with the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) reporting over 200,000 licensed racing drivers (a 20% increase in the last five years).13 Additionally, the 2025 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix recorded its highest attendance since 2006.14
