UN Tourism and the FIA launch the Global Awards for Excellence in Sustainable Sports Tourism
The awards seek to highlight projects that combine sport and tourism under criteria of sustainability, innovation, and social impact, consolidating sports tourism as a key driver of responsible development worldwide
With four categories, the awards are designed to recognize initiatives that drive sustainability, innovation, social impact, and successful examples of public-private partnerships within the sports tourism sector, while promoting and encouraging responsible practices that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The most sustainable sporting event
Community impact in sports tourism
Innovation in sports tourism development
Outstanding public-private partnerships in sports tourism
The launch of these awards builds on the strategic partnership established between the two organizations in September 2024, to foster collaboration in areas where tourism, sport, and sustainable mobility intersect.
UN Secretary-General for Tourism Zurab Pololikashvili said: "These awards reflect the growing recognition of sports tourism as a strategic driver of sustainable development, social cohesion, and innovation. We are proud to collaborate with our Affiliate Member, the FIA, to recognize those who make a significant impact through sport and tourism."
We are proud to partner with our Affiliate Member, the FIA, to honor the efforts of those who make a significant impact through sport and tourism.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem added: “Both sport and tourism are powerful engines of economic growth, cultural exchange, and community development. This collaboration with UN Tourism and these Awards will not only recognize best practices but also inspire others to create positive change. Together, we can build a future where sport continues to unite people and benefit societies around the world.”
As one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, sports tourism reached a market value of $609 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $2.3 trillion by 2032. This initiative seeks to highlight exemplary initiatives that are shaping the future of the sector. The awards are open to UN Tourism members, FIA member clubs, and other stakeholders in the fields of sport and tourism.
The awards are now open, and UN Tourism and the FIA invite all eligible organizations to participate in this first edition: a unique opportunity to showcase how sport and tourism can drive sustainability.
Source: UN Tourism.