UN Tourism and FIA Join Forces for Sustainable Sports Tourism
MADRID, Spain – The United Nations (UN) Tourism and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) have launched an exciting initiative—the UN Tourism Awards for Excellence in Sustainable Sports Tourism. This first-ever award program is designed to honor those pioneering sustainable practices in the ever-growing sports tourism sector.
Celebrating Exceptional Efforts
The awards will spotlight initiatives across four main categories: Most Sustainable Sport Event, Community Impact in Sports Tourism, Innovation in Sports Tourism Development, and Outstanding Public-Private Partnerships in Sports Tourism. These categories aim to celebrate the efforts of organizations that make a positive difference in their communities while aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.
A Growing Market
Sports tourism is an immensely expanding field, boasting a staggering market value of $609 billion in 2023 and projected to compound to $2.3 trillion by 2032. With such massive growth potential, it is crucial for industry players to embrace sustainable practices that keep both the environment and communities in mind. As sports tourism thrives, its ability to drive positive social and economic change is becoming increasingly recognized.
The Value of Collaboration
Zurab Pololikashvili, UN Tourism Secretary-General, emphasized, “These Awards reflect the growing recognition of sports tourism as a strategic driver of sustainable development, social cohesion, and innovation.” Partnering with FIA continues to strengthen this vision. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem echoed this sentiment, stating, “Sport and tourism are both powerful drivers of economic growth, cultural exchange, and community development.”
A Unique Opportunity
The awards are open for submissions from UN Tourism members, FIA Member Clubs, and various stakeholders involved in sports and tourism. This newly established competition is not just about winning; it’s about sharing and learning from one another’s best practices. By participating, organizations can gain visibility and recognition within the global tourism and sports community, ultimately inspiring others to adopt sustainable practices.
What’s Next?
Those interested in submitting their initiatives for the inaugural edition of these awards are encouraged to refer to the available Awards Guide, which outlines the necessary information and submission criteria. Winners will be announced during a high-profile ceremony scheduled for the first quarter of 2026.
In conclusion, the UN Tourism Awards for Excellence in Sustainable Sports Tourism marks a significant step towards integrating sustainability into one of the world’s largest and most impactful industries. With its focus on innovation and community engagement, the awards will undoubtedly inspire future initiatives that promote a healthier planet and stronger global communities through sports tourism.
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