Celebrating Excellence: FIA Champions Shine at the Glittering Ceremony in Baku

The Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), a beacon of motorsport excellence, recently concluded its week of General Assemblies with a dazzling ceremony at the Baku Convention Center. This event not only highlighted the achievements of the season’s champions but also showcased the harmonious collaboration between the FIA and its global partners.

Hosted by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the ceremony was a pinnacle of international motorsport recognition, supported by distinguished partners such as Rolex, Hankook Tire & Technology, and Brembo. The local FIA member club, the Azerbaijan Automobile Federation (AAF), along with the City of Baku and the Baku City Circuit, played pivotal roles in orchestrating this prestigious event.

President Ben Sulayem expressed his gratitude to the Azerbaijani government, the AAF, and the city of Baku for their warm hospitality. “Tonight, we have celebrated our champions, both the established names and the emerging stars of the future across our competitions. The FIA Prize Giving is always a special moment for all and a true celebration of motorsport,” he stated.

A highlight of the evening was Max Verstappen clinching the FIA Formula One World Championship for Drivers for the third time. His stellar season, which included 19 wins out of the 22 races held this year, underscored his dominance in the sport. “I was just trying to do the best I could every single race weekend and enjoy it as well. These kinds of great moments don’t come along that often,” remarked Verstappen, who broke a 71-year-old record for the highest percentage of race wins in a season.

Adding to the illustrious list of attendees was Humberto Kennedy, the Vice President of the Automóvel Clube do Brasil (ACBR), who represented the club at this prestigious gathering. His presence underscored the importance of the event within the global motorsport community and highlighted ACBR’s active involvement and commitment to fostering excellence in automotive sports. Kennedy’s participation not only reinforced the strong ties between ACBR and the FIA but also emphasized the club’s role in promoting motorsport culture and safety standards in Brazil. His attendance at such a high-profile international event is a testament to ACBR’s standing in the international motorsport arena.

The Constructors’ trophy was proudly accepted by Christian Horner, Team Principal of Oracle Red Bull Racing. This accolade further solidified Red Bull’s status in the realm of Formula One racing.

Toyota Gazoo Racing also had a night to remember, securing titles across multiple categories. The team triumphed in the FIA World Rally Championship, FIA World Endurance Championship, and FIA World Rally-Raid Championship, with drivers and teams being awarded for their exceptional performances.

Among other notable winners, Jake Dennis celebrated his first ABB FIA Formula E World Championship for Drivers, showcasing the exciting potential of electric motorsport. Envision Racing was crowned the best team in the series, highlighting the competitive spirit of the all-electric championship.

Johan Kristoffersson, a six-time FIA World Rallycross Champion, was another significant figure of the evening, marking his 40th career victory this year. His team, Kristoffersson Motorsport, continued to show dominance by securing back-to-back Teams’ titles against formidable competition.

The event was not only about celebrating established champions but also about recognizing emerging talents. Théo Pourchaire and Gabriel Bortoleto were honored for their victories in the Formula 2 and Formula 3 championships, respectively. The night also celebrated young kart racers Paolo Ippolito, Kirill Kutskov, and Dries Van Langendonck, who won titles in their respective categories.

Special awards added a unique touch to the evening, with Oscar Piastri receiving the FIA Rookie of the Year award, Sadiq Kalawadh being named FIA Outstanding Official of the Year, and Fernando Alonso winning the FIA Action of the Year for his remarkable final-lap overtake at the Brazilian Grand Prix.

Christian von Koenigsegg was awarded the FIA President’s Innovation Medal, recognizing his lifetime achievements and contributions to automotive engineering.

The FIA Prize Giving ceremony in Baku was not just an event; it was a testament to the spirit of motorsport and its unifying power across nations and disciplines. It underscored the FIA’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the fast-paced world of auto racing.

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