The FIA’s initiative aimed at highlighting the work of motor sport volunteers around the world has been expanded to a full weekend of celebrations. The FIA Volunteers Weekend will take place on 19-20 May, capitalising on a packed weekend of FIA competition.
Last year’s inaugural Volunteers Day was a resounding success in ensuring that the important message of thanks reached the thousands of volunteers who dedicate their time to make motor sport possible. It was also a catalyst for encouraging new volunteers to the sport.
Six headline race events will lead the charge in raising awareness of the volunteers who carry out the wide variety of essential roles without which the events would simply not happen.
Throughout the weekend, the entire motor sport community – from volunteers and officials to fans, drivers and members of the media – are encouraged to join in and show their appreciation on social media. Using the hashtag #FIAVolunteersWeekend on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, people can share photos and stories of themselves in action on the day, connecting motor sport volunteers at all levels from all around the world – from club events to world championships.
“Volunteers are the unsung heroes of motor sport. Without them, quite simply, we would not be able to go racing,” said FIA President, Jean Todt. “It is important for the FIA to recognise their vital contribution, and the occasion of the FIA Volunteers Weekend shines the spotlight on their hard work and dedication to ensuring the safety and success of events the world over.
“This is also an opportunity to promote the positive benefits that volunteers gain from their involvement, and help attract new people to motor sport.”
The FIA World Rally Championship event in Portugal, the Berlin round of the FIA Formula E Championship, the FIA World Touring Car Cup race in The Netherlands, the FIA Historic & FIA International Hill Climb Cup event in Slovakia, the Czech Republic round of the FIA Electric and New Energy & FIA Central Rally Trophy and Round 2 of the CIK-FIA European Champs & CIK-FIA European Junior Champs at PF International, Great Britain will lead the celebrations, with activities taking place to thank the marshals, race officials and medical staff who devote their time with no financial remuneration.
As part of the FIA Volunteers Weekend, a survey and lucky draw will be launched for motor sport volunteers, who by entering will have the chance to win tickets to Formula One, World Rally and Formula E events.
As well as these celebrations in FIA-organised championships, digital materials and suggestions for celebrating the occasion have been distributed to the FIA’s National Sporting Authorities (ASNs) to ensure that the important message of thanks can reach as many volunteers around the world as possible.
Those interested in becoming a volunteer are advised to contact their local ASN.