FIA Press Releases
-
FIA Opens New Remote Operations Centre at Biggin Hill Ushering in a New Era for F1 Race Management
FIA newsThe Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide, has today officially opened its new Remote Operations Centre (ROC) at Biggin Hill, U.K., marking a significant investment in the technology, infrastructure, and people that underpin the FIA Formula One World Championship.
With Formula 1 and global motor sport experiencing an extraordinary period of growth, the new ROC is the result of close collaboration between the FIA and Formula 1 that will ensure the continued delivery of the highest possible standards of race management, continuing to protect the fairness, safety and integrity of competition for everyone involved.
The relocation to a modern, state-of-the-art facility within F1’s Biggin Hill campus represents a significant multi-million-pound investment by the FIA in the future of race officiating.
The facility will provide around-the-clock support to FIA Race Control and Stewards during Grand Prix weekends for F1, F2 and F3. Enabling improved speed, accuracy and consistency of support, the new facility is integral to strengthening race operations and will play an important role in developing the next generation of FIA officials through the High Performance Programme (HPP), nurturing talent and strengthening expertise across the sport.
One of the four pillars of FIA Race Operations, the ROC works alongside Race Control, Systems Operations and the Stewards to strengthen race management and enhance decision-making.
During Grand Prix weekends, ROC analysts process live data, from more than 140 audio and video feeds, car positioning telemetry and team radio communications, acting as a support and review resource to inform decision-making by FIA officials. The ROC supports Race Control by identifying and assessing potential infringements such as jump starts, incorrect grid positioning, track limits violations, pit lane offences and compliance with stop-and-go penalties.
Innovative AI-assisted shape recognition, computer vision, and automated radio message tagging help the team to flag potential incidents. The facility also plays an important role in post-event reviews that will help refine future rules and train the next generation of Race Control operators.
The ROC inauguration ceremony was attended by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali, FIA Single-Seater Director Nikolas Tombazis, FIA Sporting Director Tim Malyon, FIA ROC Team Leader & Regulations Specialist Steve Porter, and members of the ROC operations team. The event celebrated not only the opening of this landmark new facility, but also a shared commitment by the FIA and FOG to ensure the highest standards of sporting governance at the pinnacle of motor sport.
The new facility has been fully operational since the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix, providing more efficient connectivity with the circuit and greater operational capability, with up to 16 staff working during race weekends.
This investment extends far beyond technology, with the facility also supporting the FIA’s High Performance Programme for Officials (HPP), which has offered Stewards and Race Directors from across the world personalised training and a clear pathway to FIA World Championship level since 2023.
Together, the ROC and the HPP are helping the FIA build a stronger, more diverse pool of officials, future-proofing race operations.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, said: “The inauguration of our new Remote Operations Centre represents an important milestone in the continued evolution of the FIA Formula One World Championship and our commitment to delivering the highest standards of safety, fairness and integrity across our sport.
“As the Championship grows globally, it is vital that we continue to invest in the people, technology and infrastructure that underpin world-class race operations. This state-of-the-art facility will strengthen our ability to support accurate, consistent and efficient decision-making, ensuring that our sport continues to operate at the highest possible standards.
“This is also a powerful example of what we can achieve through collaboration. I would like to thank Stefano Domenicali and our partners at FOG for their continued support, alongside the dedicated FIA teams whose expertise and professionalism are fundamental to the success of our sport. Together, we are investing in a stronger, safer and fairer future for motor sport.”
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said: “The opening of the FIA’s Remote Operations Centre at our Formula 1 Media & Technology Centre in Biggin Hill, the home of our international broadcast, is an important step forward for our sport and our fans. It demonstrates what we can achieve when Formula 1 and the FIA work closely together with a shared ambition to deliver the highest standards across our sport.
This world-leading facility will support the FIA’s trackside activities across Formula 1, Formula 2 and Formula 3, strengthening the operations that are essential to fair and consistent competition. I would like to congratulate Mohammed Ben Sulayem and the entire FIA team on delivering this centre. We look forward to welcoming them to Biggin Hill and continuing our close collaboration to build a stronger future for our sport.”
ENDS
For media enquiries please contact: Cameron Kelleher, Director of Sport Communications – ckelleher@fia.com
About the FIA
The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) is the governing body for world motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations globally. It is a non-profit organisation committed to driving innovation and championing safety, sustainability and equality across motor sport and mobility.
Founded in 1904, with offices in Paris, London and Geneva, the FIA brings together 246 Member Organisations across five continents, representing millions of road users, motor sport professionals and volunteers. It develops and enforces regulations for motor sport, including six FIA World Championships, to ensure worldwide competitions are safe and fair for all.
Formula 1F1
FIA1FIAF1Formula 100Tuesday, October 20, 2026 - 5:16pmTuesday, October 20, 2026 - 5:16pm -
Formula 1 returns to Africa with 10 year agreement to race in Rwanda
Sport newsThe agreement marks a defining moment in Formula 1's history and will see the sport return to the African continent for the first time since 1993. Racing in Africa has been a long-standing ambition for Formula 1, and today's announcement follows years of collaboration to ensure the right foundations, with the best partner, are in place to deliver a successful, sustainable and world-class Grand Prix for generations to come.
The long-term agreement will see the first race in the country take place once the new purposebuilt circuit in Bugesera, Rwanda, has been completed, which is expected to be early in the next decade. The new track will be developed to FIA Grade 1 standards as part of a wider sports, tourism, infrastructure, and commercial development project led by the Rwanda Development Board.
Located approximately 40 kilometres south of Kigali and adjacent to the new Kigali International Airport, the circuit will be designed to work in harmony with the natural landscape, using the area's elevation changes to create a unique and challenging racing experience while delivering exceptional viewing opportunities for fans. Beyond race weekends, the venue will serve as a year-round destination capable of hosting international motorsport, major events, conferences and entertainment, helping to drive long-term economic growth and investment across the region.
The announcement reflects Formula 1's continued commitment to expanding its global reach and connecting with new audiences around the world. Africa represents one of the most exciting growth opportunities for the sport, with more than 100 million fans already following Formula 1 across the continent and almost 60% of fans in key Sub-Saharan African markets under the age of 35.
Rwanda has established itself as one of Africa's leading destinations for international events, successfully hosting major sport and global gatherings including the UCI Road World Championships, the ICC Women’s Challenge Trophy, 2023 FIFA Congress, the Basketball Africa League, the 2024 FIA General Assemblies and the FIA Awards Ceremony. The Formula 1 African Grand Prix, presented by Visit Rwanda, represents the next chapter in the country's ambition to become a globally recognised hub for sport, tourism, innovation and business.
More than simply bringing Formula 1 back to Africa, the project is designed to create a legacy by supporting tourism, attracting investment, developing local talent and creating new opportunities for communities and businesses. Together, Formula 1, the Government of Rwanda and the Rwanda Development Board share a vision to build an event that generates meaningful economic and social impact while inspiring future generations across the continent. Further details regarding the inaugural race date, circuit development milestones and race weekend plans will be announced in due course.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, said:“The return of the FIA Formula One World Championship to Africa is a historic moment for our sport and an important step in the continued global growth of motorsport. Rwanda has demonstrated a strong commitment to delivering a world-class event, and the FIA will work closely with FOM and our partners as this new circuit is developed to the highest international standards.
“This agreement is also about creating a lasting legacy, inspiring new generations, developing talent and opening new opportunities for motorsport across Africa and beyond. Increasing accessibility is at the heart of the FIA’s mission, and we have a responsibility to ensure that our sport continues to grow at every level, reaching new communities and creating opportunities for people in every corner of the world.
“I congratulate President Paul Kagame on this landmark moment for his nation and share my thanks with Stefano Domenicali and all those whose collaboration has made this exciting new chapter possible.”
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1 Group, said: “Today is a landmark moment for Formula 1. With Rwanda joining the calendar from the next decade, our sport will race in every inhabited continent, bringing the World Championship closer than ever to fans around the globe. Africa has always been part of Formula 1's future, and from the beginning we were determined to return in the right way, with the right partner, a long-term commitment and a clear vision for creating meaningful impact. I would like to thank His Excellency Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda, the Government of Rwanda, the Rwanda Development Board, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and everyone whose dedication and collaboration have made this possible.
“This is about much more than hosting a Grand Prix. Together, we can create lasting economic and social benefits through tourism, investment, skills development and local business growth, ensuring the positive impact of this event is felt for generations. For our fans, this is an especially exciting moment. Africa is home to more than 100 million Formula 1 fans, and that number continues to grow rapidly. We are bringing the excitement, energy and drama of Formula 1 closer to millions of people who have waited a long time to see our sport return to the continent, and we look forward to writing an exciting new chapter together."
His Excellency Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda, said: “Today belongs to Africa. For more than three decades, the world's premier motorsport championship has raced without this continent, and that changes with this agreement. Rwanda is proud to host the Formula 1 African Grand Prix, and to share this moment with more than 100 million fans across Africa, many of them young people who deserve to see the sport at home and to see themselves in it: as engineers, technicians, entrepreneurs and, one day, drivers. This tenyear partnership is also an investment in Rwanda's future. The circuit in Bugesera, alongside the new international airport, will bring jobs, skills, tourism and new business to our country and our region for decades to come, because our aim was never a single race weekend, but a lasting benefit for our people. I thank Stefano Domenicali, Formula 1 and Mohammed Ben Sulayem for the work that has brought us to this day. We look forward to welcoming the world to Rwanda for the African Grand Prix.”
FIAFormula 1F1
Sport1SportF1FIAFormula 100Tuesday, October 13, 2026 - 10:21amTuesday, October 13, 2026 - 10:21am -
FIA Invites Fans to Help Shape the Future of Touring Car Racing
Sport newshe FIA has launched a global survey encouraging fans from around the world to help shape the future of touring car racing by sharing their views on what the next generation of touring car regulations should look like.
Kumho FIA TCR World TourTouring CarCircuitAll fia sport
As the FIA begins work on a new set of technical regulations for its top-level touring car category, the survey aims to gather views from across the global touring car community on the key elements that should define the discipline in the years ahead.
Top-level FIA touring car racing has evolved significantly over the years, taking many different forms in response to changing sporting, technical and commercial priorities – from cups and international series to the FIA World Touring Car Championship, and from Super 2000 and TC1 regulations to today's TCR platform.
The FIA's objective is for the new class to be cost-effective while remaining relevant, featuring cars that are spectacular to watch, demanding to drive and capable of producing close-quarters racing.
As the FIA begins work on its next technical platform, the survey will help identify the characteristics fans would like to see in the touring cars of tomorrow, from their appearance and performance to the type of racing they produce.
Participants will also be able to share their views on what makes touring car racing unique and which race formats deliver the most exciting and engaging competition.
To take part, visit TCFanSurvey.com. The survey will remain open until 25 October, with fans from all regions and backgrounds encouraged to participate.
Alan Gow, FIA Touring Car Commission President, said: "The FIA is seeking the opinions of touring car fans as it begins to consider what the next generation of FIA Touring Cars should look like. Their input will help ensure that future cars remain relevant and popular. Most importantly, they must maintain or even increase the close and exciting battles that are the hallmark of great touring car racing, while keeping a strict eye on cost control."
Marek Nawarecki, FIA Senior Circuit Sport Director, said: "The future of touring car racing should be shaped not only by officials, manufacturers and teams, but also by the people who fill grandstands, watch broadcasts and follow the sport around the world. As the regulator of the sport, the FIA wants to hear directly from those fans. This survey gives them a unique opportunity to help shape the future of this spectacular form of racing."
SEASON 2026SportCircuit1SportKumho FIA TCR World TourCircuitAll fia sportSEASON 2026Touring CarCircuit00Monday, October 12, 2026 - 12:21pmMonday, October 12, 2026 - 12:21pm -
INTERNATIONAL COURT OF APPEAL - Hearing October 15, 2026
Sport newsThe following hearing of the International Court of Appeal will take place in Paris:
Hearing
Case ICA-2026-12-13: Appeals lodged on behalf of Mr Gianmarco Ercoli and Mr Raphael Lessard against the Decision of the National Court of Appeal of the Fédération Française du Sport Automobile (FFSA) dated 24 July 2026, which ruled on an appeal lodged against Decisions No. 09 and No. 10 dated 7 June 2026 of the Stewards of the 2026 NASCAR GP UK, counting towards the 2026 NASCAR Euro Series.
During the 2026 NASCAR GP UK, held from 5 to 7 June 2026 at Brands Hatch (United Kingdom), Mr Gianmarco Ercoli and Mr Raphael Lessard drove Car No. 11 of ALUMITEC Racing in the V8GP and OPEN Drivers Championships respectively.
On 7 June 2026, following the replacement of the engine of Car No. 11, the Technical Delegate reported to the Stewards that the Team had refused to provide the engine for inspection.
The Stewards subsequently issued Decisions No. 09 and No. 10, finding a breach of Article 19 of the 2026 NASCAR Euro Series Technical Regulations. They imposed the exclusion of Mr Ercoli from the Event and of Mr Lessard from Race 1 of the OPEN Drivers Championship.
On 24 July 2026, the FFSA National Court of Appeal rejected the appeals and upheld the Stewards’ Decisions.
On 27 August 2026, the Appellants lodged appeals against that decision before the ICA. The two appeals will be examined jointly.
When
09:00 hrs
Thursday, 15 October 2026
Where
FIA – 8 place de la Concorde – 75008 Paris (Salle du Comité, 5th floor).
Decision
The decision will be published as soon as possible after the hearing.
Accreditation
Requests for accreditation must be sent by email to the FIA Press Office (sgomez@fia.com) on the official letterhead paper of the publication or other medium requesting accreditation, no later than Tuesday 13 October 2026 at noon (French time).
The accreditation request must be signed by the Chief Editor or the Head of a Department (specify which) of the relevant publication, or medium.
The accreditation request must include the following:
i) the hearing and the date for which the accreditation is requested;
ii) name of the journalist and photocopy of their professional press card (currently valid);
iii) email address to which the FIA can send an answer.
Court of AppealInternational Court of Appeal
SEASON 2026SportCircuit1SportCircuitInternational Court of AppealSEASON 2026Court of Appeal00Friday, October 9, 2026 - 4:02pmFriday, October 9, 2026 - 4:02pm -
INTERNATIONAL COURT OF APPEAL - Hearing October 14, 2026
Sport newsThe following hearing of the International Court of Appeal will be conducted remotely by videoconference:
Hearing
Case ICA-2026-10: Appeal lodged on behalf of TEPZ Racing Team s.r.o. against Decision No. 21 dated 30 July 2026 of the Stewards of the Event of Asum Ring-Kristianstad (Sweden), counting towards the 2026 Mondokart.com FIA Karting European Championship - Junior.
On 30 July 2026, during the Asum Ring-Kristianstad Competition, counting towards the 2026 Mondokart.com FIA Karting European Championship - Junior, Driver No. 205, Zdenek Babicek of TEPZ Racing Team s.r.o., was involved in an incident during the mandatory Drivers’ Briefing.
Following the incident, the Driver and the Competitor’s representative were summoned and heard by the Stewards.
The Stewards subsequently issued Decision No. 21, finding that Driver No. 205 had misbehaved during the Drivers’ Briefing, in breach of Article 12.2.1.l of the FIA International Sporting Code. The Stewards imposed the cancellation of the Driver’s fastest lap from the Competition’s Qualifying Practice.
On the 3rd of August 2026, the Appellant lodged an appeal against the Stewards’ Decision before the ICA.
When
09:30 hrs
Wednesday, 14 October 2026
Where
The hearing will be conducted remotely by videoconference.
Decision
The decision will be published as soon as possible after the hearing.
Accreditation
Requests for accreditation must be sent by email to the FIA Press Office (sgomez@fia.com) on the official letterhead paper of the publication or other medium requesting accreditation, no later than Monday 12 October 2026 at noon (French time).
The accreditation request must be signed by the Chief Editor or the Head of a Department (specify which) of the relevant publication, or medium.
The accreditation request must include the following:
i) the hearing and the date for which the accreditation is requested;
ii) name of the journalist and photocopy of their professional press card (currently valid);
iii) email address to which the FIA can send an answer.
FIA Karting European Championship - JuniorFIA KartingInternational Court of AppealSEASON 2026SportCircuit1SportFIA Karting European Championship - JuniorCircuitInternational Court of AppealSEASON 2026FIA Karting00Friday, October 9, 2026 - 3:45pmFriday, October 9, 2026 - 3:45pm