The FIA has launched a groundbreaking education programme as part of its ongoing commitment to combat online abuse in sport, the first sporting governing body to introduce such a resource. The interactive programme builds digital resilience within sporting organisations, offering competitors and officials critical insights into the triggers, targets, and various forms of online abuse, as well as the impact on individuals and society, and the legal frameworks available to combat it.
Launched in partnership with the FIA’s United Against Online Abuse (UAOA) campaign, the module will be distributed to FIA Member Clubs worldwide. The course provides interactive and engaging content designed to support learning and professional development as well as the tools and skills needed to combat online abuse. Upon completion, participants will receive an official certificate from FIA University, recognising their achievement.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President and UAOA Founder said:
“The launch of this education module marks a significant milestone for the FIA, UAOA, and FIA University in our mission to promote continuous learning and professional development across FIA Member Clubs. I’m proud to lead the first sporting governing body to launch such an important resource.
“Through United Against Online Abuse, the FIA and the motorsport community is taking the lead in tackling online abuse across the sporting world and this initiative is a crucial resource to educate individuals on the risks of digital harassment and how they can enhance their online safety and resilience. I strongly encourage all FIA member clubs to complete this course and be part of the fight against online abuse.”
Recent findings from the United Against Online Abuse 2025 Barometer revealed that 89% of sporting federations believe sports governing bodies face increasing pressure to protect athletes from online abuse. This FIA UAOA Online Learning Module demonstrates the FIA’s leading work to promote education and action, empowering motorsport clubs with the knowledge to recognise, report, and respond to digital harassment effectively.
Clubs can now access the module through the FIAU E-Learning platform and enrol at their convenience. By offering a comprehensive understanding of online abuse, including its definitions, legal implications and key challenges, this module sets a new standard in digital safety education which the FIA is proud to be leading.
About United Against Online Abuse (UAOA)
Founded by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and supported by the FIA Foundation, UAOA unites sports federations, national governments, regulatory bodies, and technology platforms to drive regulatory and behavioural change in the fight against online harassment. Since its launch in 2023, the coalition has published groundbreaking research, spearheaded international campaigns, and brought together key stakeholders to promote safer and more inclusive digital spaces.
To date, UAOA has received endorsements from the Governments of Greece, France, Slovenia, Albania, Australia, Kenya, Costa Rica, Namibia, and Rwanda, alongside leading sports federations and organisations, including FIM, the International Esports Federation, ASETEK SimSports, Peace and Sport Monaco, UNESCO, the Council of Europe, Clark Hill LLP, Arwen.AI, and DCU University. The FIA was also awarded Peace and Sport’s Coalition for Peace Award in 2024, presented to FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem by Prince Albert II of Monaco in recognition of UAOA’s work building a united front against online abuse.
The modules, introduced by the FIA University, will provide further training and experience to medical staff, drivers and volunteers across motorsport
The safety and wellbeing of all motorsport participants is the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile’s (FIA) first priority, and as a knowledge-led federation the FIA continues to provide educational opportunities for the sporting community.
Building on the expansive offering available via the FIA University, the FIA has launched five new Motorsport Medicine eLearning Modules to provide educational support and help grow the medical knowledge of staff, volunteers and drivers across the global motorsport network.
Each module is tailored to different specialties, offering comprehensive guidance on best practices before, during, and after events.
The five modules have been developed by the FIA University in collaboration with the FIA Medical Commission and with the support of the FIA Foundation.
- The Driver’s Handbook: As athletes, racing drivers must maintain peak physical and mental condition. This module focuses on fitness, medical checks, event preparation, and accident preparation to allowing drivers to perform necessary medical checks, follow event processes, and manage challenging situations effectively.
- Understanding Concussion: Concussion education is key in keeping motorsport as safe as possible. This module educates drivers, medical staff, and teams on recognizing concussion symptoms, implementing correct response protocols, and managing safe returns to competition.
- Duties of the Healthcare Professional: This module is designed to brief clinical staff of all levels, on how to operate safely within a motorsport environment. Covering pre-event preparation, in-event responsibilities, and post-event procedures, participants will gain knowledge on best practices in motorsport medical care.
- Duties of the Chief Medical Officer: Aimed at current, deputy and aspiring Chief Medical Officers, this module provides a framework for leading medical operations at motorsport events. It includes key responsibilities, preparation processes, event-day medical leadership, and post-event duties to ensure effective medical management.
- Principles of Pre-Hospital Care: This module is aimed at those new to the concept of pre-hospital care and at those already practicing in the field. Covering trauma kinematics, on-scene assessment, and emergency management, it equips participants with the skills needed to follow the correct procedures when handling specific motorsport medical scenes at the pre-hospital stage.
Each of these modules takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes to complete and is available via the FIA University website.
By completing these courses, participants will be better equipped to handle medical situations in motorsport and contribute to a safer racing environment.
FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, commented on the new modules saying: “As a Federation we are committed to providing the safest sporting environment possible, ensuring all staff and volunteers have access to the most up to date medical training available.
By expanding our educational resources, we are strengthening the global motorsport medical network, equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to enhance safety both on and off the track.”
Dr. Sean Petherbridge, FIA Medical Commission President and FIA Medical Affairs Manager, said: “I fully support the FIA President’s vision of increasing accessibility and participation in motorsport while maintaining the highest safety standards. As our sport grows, so does the need for highly trained medical personnel, and these modules are an important step in supporting their development.
The modules provide essential knowledge for medical professionals at all levels, from newcomers to experienced Chief Medical Officers. Additionally, drivers will benefit from the Driver’s Handbook, which offers key insights into their own medical preparedness and how they can work effectively with medical teams at events.”
All five modules are now live and available on the FIA University eLearning platform for existing users: https://elearning.fia.com/learn/signin
New users can register for an account and enter FL044-MEDI into the Branch Code field to gain access.
For more information contact elearning@fia.com
The Global Observatory for Gender Equality & Sport publishes policy briefs on various topics related to gender and inequalities in the context of physical education, physical activity, and sport. The Policy Brief Series aims to provide concise research analysis and research-based recommendations to policy actors across government and sport governance bodies. Each Policy Brief is reviewed by at least two expert reviewers who are external to the Global Observatory and edited by the Global Observatory.
Online Gender-Based Violence against Women and Girls in Sport
Abstract: Online gender-based violence (GBV) can include sexually explicit language, unpleasant remarks or social criticism connected to gender, gendered-microaggressions, sexual allusions, exaggerated rape and murder threats, and stalking. Violent interactions may be text or image-based and can target individuals directly and/or those closest to them.
Online GBV in sport curtails the rights of women and girls, impacts on their liberty, and poses a significant threat to their health, safety and wellbeing. The aim of this policy briefing is to share research perspectives on online gender-based violence against women and girls in sport and to make recommendations for global sporting organizations, online platforms, and governments who have a moral obligation to foster safer online communities.
Authors: Emma J. Kavanagh¹, Chelsea Litchfield², Jaquelyn Osborne², Keith D. Parry¹
¹Department of Sport and Event Management, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK
²School of Allied Health, Exercise and Sports Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, Australia
Citation: Kavanagh, E.J., Litchfield, C., Osborne, J., and Parry, K.D. (2024). Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women and Girls In Sport. Gender and PEPAS Policy Brief Series. 1(1) Global Observatory for Gender Equality & Sport: Lausanne
The Fans’ Vision for the Future of Rallying
The FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) community has spoken. With over 11,000 responses, our latest survey reveals the undiminished passion for rally sport, emphasizing the appeal of its diverse conditions and authentic experiences. Fans are calling for the preservation of this variety, with a keen interest in endurance rallies and sustainable practices, while reflecting on the golden era of WRC as a blueprint for future excitement.
This report, guided by Professor David Hassan and enriched by insights from dedicated focus groups, not only charts the current state of fan engagement but also outlines a path forward for the WRC. Embracing nostalgia and innovation alike, it aims to ensure the Championship’s vibrant future and continued resonance with fans around the globe.
Join us as we delve into the heart of rally sport, guided by the voices of its most ardent supporters.
Embark on an engineering adventure with our International Engineering Scholarship.
Designed for aspiring global engineers, this program is your gateway to a future of innovation in motorsport leadership and management. This scholarship is a stepping stone to a world of innovation, leadership, and excellence in motorsport engineering.
Discover Our Education Programmes
Our scholarship aligns with FIA University’s commitment to providing advanced education in motorsport leadership and management. Immerse yourself in a learning environment that prepares you for the challenges of modern sports governance.
Engage with Our Research Initiatives
The scholarship also provides a chance to contribute to cutting-edge research that pushes the boundaries of motorsport engineering. We encourage our scholars to participate in doctoral and postdoctoral opportunities, fostering an environment where innovation thrives. Explore these opportunities in our Research section.
Become Part of Our Community
Joining our scholarship program means becoming part of a global community united against online abuse and advocating for positive change in the digital space. Find out more about our community values and initiatives at United Against Online Abuse.
Prepare for a Future in Motorsport Leadership
As a recipient of the Engineering Scholarship for International Students, you will be prepared to take on leadership roles within the dynamic field of motorsport. Our dedicated programs offer insights into the industry’s business side and the technological innovations driving it forward. Dive into our specialised content under Articles.
The 2024 Barometer Report, a landmark initiative by FIA University and funded by the FIA Foundation under the United Against Online Abuse campaign, unveils the pressing issue of online abuse in sports. Drawing from international federations’ insights, it highlights the critical need for united efforts to combat this digital menace, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between sporting bodies and online platforms. This report is a vital step towards a safer sporting environment online.
For more details, please read the article on FIA’s website here.
The FIA University is a central part of our ambition to make the FIA a knowledge-led federation. It’s inaugural graduation ceremony in Baku this month demonstrated its success with 57 graduates being recognised for their achievements. Many congratulations, too, to their clubs who should also be particularly proud of their achievements.
Dynamic Leadership
Led by Carmelo Sanz De Barros, Robert Reid, and Professor David Hassan, the ceremony highlighted the importance of visionary leadership in motorsport.
Educational Excellence
FIA University’s programs prepare students for impactful careers in Modern Sport Governance and Motorsport Leadership and Management, fostering industry leaders.
The FIA‘s commitment to “Sustainable Mobility in Motorsport” is vividly showcased in its insightful white paper, “Accelerating a Just Transition – The Motor Sport and Mobility Perspective”. This seminal document marks a significant stride in integrating sustainability into motorsport and personal mobility, reflecting the FIA’s dedication to a greener future.
Embracing Eco-Friendly Innovation in Motorsport
The FIA’s white paper, “Accelerating a Just Transition – The Motor Sport and Mobility Perspective”, aligns with the overarching mission of FIA University to advance knowledge in motorsport. While the specific educational programmes at FIA University, such as the Certificate in Motorsport Leadership and Management, focus on various aspects of motorsport and sport governance, the themes of sustainability and innovation in the white paper reflect the institution’s commitment to fostering a broader understanding and leadership in the field of motorsport. This commitment is pivotal in guiding the future of sustainable practices in motorsport and mobility sectors.
Consumer Participation in Sustainable Practices
The document underscores the critical role of consumers in achieving sustainable mobility. It aligns with our efforts through global coalitions at FIA University, aimed at fostering responsible and ethical practices in sports and mobility. Additionally, nurturing global talent is a priority, evident through scholarships like the FIA Engineering Scholarship.
Global Partnerships for Sustainable Development
The pursuit of sustainable mobility in motorsport extends beyond the FIA. It involves collaborative efforts with renowned institutions like Columbia University and ESADE Business School. These partnerships enrich our understanding and execution of sustainable practices in the field.
Conclusion
The FIA’s white paper is a comprehensive guide and a visionary roadmap for sustainable mobility in motorsport. It aligns with FIA University’s mission to promote a more sustainable and responsible future in the automotive and sports sectors. We invite you to read the full white paper here and join us at FIA University in this sustainable journey.
Discover our range of courses and initiatives aimed at fostering leadership and innovation in sustainable mobility at FIA University. Join us in shaping a more sustainable and environmentally-conscious world of motorsport and mobility.
Apply for a scholarship, study remotely and contribute to the FIA’s global movement against online abuse in sports whilst earning a master’s degree from Dublin City University.