The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motor sport and the federation of mobility organisations worldwide, has announced the launch of the second edition of its executive education initiative, the FIA University Advanced Leadership Programme (ALP), hosted at its headquarters in Paris.
Designed as a catalyst for transformation, the FIA University ALP seeks to empower high-potential executives from FIA Member Clubs across both the global mobility and motor sport sectors, equipping them with the knowledge and leadership skills needed to navigate disruption and drive meaningful change.
Running from 22 to 26 September, the five-day programme offers senior-level sessions, interactive workshops, and exclusive experiences. The curriculum addresses key challenges shaping the industry today—including sustainability, AI-driven decision-making, innovation, and strategies for fan and member engagement—providing participants with practical tools and frameworks to apply directly within their organisations.
This year, 36 FIA Member Club delegates from 24 countries are taking part, learning directly from senior FIA Executives and a world-class academic faculty, including:
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Prof. David Hassan (FIA University): Real-world leadership through case studies.
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Dr. Madeleine Orr (Visiting Professor for Sustainability, FIA University): Advancing sustainable practices.
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Prof. Sascha Schmidt (WHU Otto Beisheim School of Management): Exploring SportTech and innovation.
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Prof. Karoline Strauss & Prof. Harris Kyriakou (ESSEC Business School): Change leadership and AI-powered decision-making.
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Yann Baffalio (Havas Sports): Strategies for member attraction, retention, and fan engagement.
Participants will also gain unique insights from the French Tennis Federation at Roland Garros, explore fan engagement and loyalty strategies at Parc des Princes with Paris Saint-Germain, and experience innovation firsthand at Station F, with presentations from SportTech and automotive start-ups.
The FIA University is a global leader in accreditation, education, and research in the fields of motor sport and mobility. Its research informs public policy and industry strategy worldwide, while serving as a vital resource for FIA Member Clubs. Supported by the FIA Foundation, the University’s Advanced Leadership Programme is jointly led by the FIA General Secretariat for Sport and the FIA General Secretariat for Mobility and Sustainability.
Alberto Villarreal, FIA General Manager, said:
“The future of mobility and motor sport is being written now. The FIA University Advanced Leadership Programme empowers leaders not just to respond to disruption, but to anticipate change and actively shape what comes next. With a strong focus on safety, sustainability, and innovation, the programme provides a unique platform for learning, collaboration, and idea exchange that will have lasting impact on our global community.”
Willem Groenewald, FIA Secretary General for Automobile Mobility and Sustainability, added:
“The FIA University Advanced Leadership Programme transcends traditional boundaries by uniting expertise across mobility, sustainability, and sport. This collaboration strengthens leadership capacity among our Members, fosters innovative thinking, and enables co-creation of solutions to common challenges. Participants return with actionable strategies, valuable global networks, and knowledge to advance safer, more sustainable, and affordable mobility for all.”
Valerio Iachizzi, FIA Secretary General for Sport, commented:
“Through immersive sessions, case studies, and expert-led content, the FIA University Advanced Leadership Programme equips our Members with critical insights in areas such as fan engagement, event operations, and innovation. Participants exchange ideas across both mobility and sport, enhancing leadership capacity, exploring emerging trends, and developing new approaches to shape the future of motor sport worldwide.”
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