The FIA and representatives from its national sporting authorities (ASNs) and national automobile clubs (ACNs) assembled in Tirana this week (13-14 December) for the fifth edition of the FIA Sport Regional Congress held in Central Europe.
 
The Congress, hosted for the first time by Automobile Club Albania (ACA), was led by FIA President Jean Todt, ACA President Niko Leka and FIA Coordinator for CEZ Zrinko Gregurek.
 
“The Central European Zone was established 26 years ago and during this time much has been accomplished by its member clubs, which now total 16. At this fifth edition of the FIA Sport Regional Congress here, we have had the opportunity to reflect on the progress made since we last came together in Slovenia twelve months ago,” said Jean Todt.
 
“I would like to congratulate ACA President Niko Leka, Secretary General Eridon Lameborshi and everyone within their team for the excellent organisation of the Congress. Coming so soon after the terrible earthquake that hit Albania three weeks ago, killing or injuring so many, we are proud of the Albanian people, humbled by their spirit and fortitude, and grateful for the warm hospitality extended to the ASN delegations this week.”

The Congress programme included sessions on how ASNs can develop relations with government, organise safe and enjoyable rallies, facilitate access to motor sport through grassroots disciplines, improve the management and commercialisation of events, and make further strides in wider motor sport development. The programme was organised under the leadership of the FIA’s ASN Development Task Force presided over by Andrew Papadopoulos.

A number of interactive workshops provided insights and encouraged debate on the topics of Digital Motor Sport, FIA Motorsport Games National Team Selection, Training, Hill Climb Performance Factor, Drifting, Sustainability, Sport Grants, Women in Motorsport, and Communications Best Practice.

Jean Todt continued: “I salute the member clubs from Central Europe for their unceasing efforts in promoting motor sport, setting the example for high-level motor sport all over the world. I am proud to say that collectively the region hosts 156 FIA events, including 4 FIA Formula One World Championship Grands Prix, 2 FIA World Rally Championship events, 2 WTCR – FIA World Touring Car Cup events and 4 FIA World Cup for Cross Country Rallies and Bajas. Of course, there is also the Rome event of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship, set to be awarded World Championship status from 2020, and last month we had 38 participants competing in the inaugural edition of the FIA Motorsport Games in Rome, with Italy the runner-up nation. There is also strong representation in the FIA European Historic Sporting Rally Championship, the FIA European Rally Championship, the FIA Karting Championships and the FIA European Hill Climb Championship.
 
“This evening we have enjoyed witnessing the CEZ Prize Giving, held as part of this Congress. It has provided a wonderful opportunity to reward the many passionate competitors from a wide variety of disciplines.”
 
In closing, Jean Todt said: “The importance of motor sport across Central Europe is clear to see. Notwithstanding the success already achieved, there is still a great deal we can accomplish together. We rely on the passion and enthusiasm of the ASNs to ensure the continued vitality of motor sport.”