This initiative is designed to recognise and celebrate organisations that are championing sustainability, innovation, and positive social impact within the rapidly growing sports tourism industry. The collaboration builds on a strategic partnership the two bodies established in September 2024, aimed at fostering cooperation where tourism, sport, and sustainable mobility intersect. The timing is crucial, as the sports tourism market reached a staggering value of $609 billion in 2023 and is projected to skyrocket to $2.3 trillion by 2032. These awards seek to guide that explosive growth towards a more responsible and sustainable future, in line with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Leaders from both organisations have voiced their strong support for the initiative. UN Tourism Secretary General, Zurab Pololikashvili, stated, “These Awards reflect the growing recognition of sports tourism as a strategic driver of sustainable development, social cohesion and innovation. We are proud to partner with our Affiliate Member FIA to honour the efforts of those making a meaningful impact through sport and tourism”.

Echoing this sentiment, FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, added, “Sport and tourism are both powerful drivers of economic growth, cultural exchange, and community development. This partnership with UN Tourism, and these Awards, will not only celebrate best practice but also inspire others to create positive change. Together we can build a future where sport continues to unite people and benefit societies worldwide”.

Award Categories and Eligibility

The awards are structured around four key categories to highlight different areas of excellence:

• Most Sustainable Sport Event
• Community Impact in Sports Tourism
• Innovation in Sports Tourism Development
• Outstanding Public-Private Partnership in Sports Tourism

These categories aim to showcase exemplary initiatives that are actively shaping the future of the sector in a positive way.

The awards are open to a wide range of organisations. UN Tourism Members, FIA Member Clubs, and other stakeholders involved in the fields of sports and tourism are all encouraged to submit their entries for this inaugural edition. The FIA and UN Tourism invite all eligible groups to take part, viewing it as a unique opportunity to demonstrate how sport and tourism can be powerful forces for driving global sustainability.