The President of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) Mohammed Ben Sulayem officially opened the iconic SEMA Show in Las Vegas earlier this week, becoming the first non-American to ever do so.
The show, the annual flagship event of FIA Member Club the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), is the world’s leading trade event for the automotive aftermarket bringing together more than 160,000 industry professionals, innovators and enthusiasts from over 140 countries. Showcasing the latest in performance, customisation and mobility technology, the event provides a global platform for manufacturers, buyers and media to connect, exchange ideas and celebrate car culture.
Visiting as both FIA President and an avid car enthusiast and expert, Ben Sulayem engaged with key members of the U.S. congress and local government, representatives from global OEMs, fellow racing drivers, and other enthusiasts, leading on discussions around the FIA’s huge global impact as the governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide.
Speaking during an interview at the event, President Ben Sulayem reflected on the importance of passion and collaboration in driving progress across the automotive world:
“To be a part of the automobile industry, you need a passion for it. At my first SEMA Show in 2016, I saw the energy, the teamwork, and the ability to tackle issues together. That same spirit continues to define this community, one that values innovation, craftsmanship and the freedom to create.”
On the enduring partnership between the FIA and SEMA, he added:
“I am a part of SEMA, and they are a part of the FIA. We share the same commitment to advancing safety, sustainability and responsible innovation across the automotive and mobility sectors. My thanks to SEMA for their hospitality, and congratulations to Mike [Spagnola, CEO] and the entire team for another successful show that continues to inspire and unite the global car community.”
During the visit, the FIA also reinforced its collaboration with SEMA on shared priorities including advancing vehicle safety standards, promoting sustainable technologies, and protecting the global right to modify within responsible regulatory frameworks.
The partnership reflects the commitment of both organisations to ensuring that innovation and creativity in car culture can thrive alongside safety, environmental responsibility, and future mobility solutions.
ENDS
For media enquiries, please contact:
Geri Sherwin, Director of Presidential & Mobility Communications: gsherwin@fia.com
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 245 Member Organisations across five continents, representing millions of road users, motor sport professionals and volunteers. It develops and enforces regulations for motor sport, including seven FIA World Championships, to ensure worldwide competitions are safe and fair for all.
