Detroit Grand Prix achieves gold-level event certification
The 2023 Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear has become the first motorsports event worldwide to earn gold-level certification from the Council for Responsible Sport.
The Council for Responsible Sport recognises and certifies events that meet specific criteria for social and environmental responsibility objectives. Certification is accomplished through planning and communications, procurement, resource management, access, equity and community engagement.
“Reaching gold-level certification from the Council for Responsible Sport is a tremendous honour for the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear and a true testament to our event’s commitment to being a positive force in Detroit and across Southeast Michigan,” said Michael Montri, President of the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix.
“With the help of our event partners, we are proud of how the Grand Prix has emerged as a leader in effecting environmental and social change in our community, now and into the future.”
This year, the Detroit Grand Prix joined Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Hy-Vee Indycar Race Weekend at Iowa Speedway as NTT Indycar Series events and venues, to apply for Council for Responsible Sport certification.
Community partnerships and programmes sealed the deal for the Detroit Grand Prix with gold-level certification. Grand Prix partners worked with event organisers to create community engagement, sustainability, youth enrichment, small business empowerment, and arts, culture and entrepreneurship opportunities across the city.
“Reaching gold-level certification from the Council for Responsible Sport is a tremendous honour for the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear."
The event also worked with Priority Waste to implement waste diversion and recycling programmes to host the most sustainable Detroit Grand Prix in its history. A partnership with Penske Truck Rental also saw the event offset 100% of fan travel carbon emissions by investing in nature-based programmes in Michigan and further afield.
Detroit Grand Prix focused on accessibility more than ever and also created engaging opportunities for neighbourhoods across Detroit. Multiple viewing platforms at the circuit provided access and free viewing for fans across more than half of the event’s footprint.
Students from the Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan also designed unique art murals honouring local communities. Further opportunities were presented for neighbourhoods and businesses to benefit from the event, with a focus on Black, Indigenous and People of Colour firms.
Image: Ayden Sutton on Unsplash