The FIA is back in the black—the International Automobile Federation reports its strongest financial results in a decade for 2025
With an operating profit of 6.7 million euros on revenue of 191.7 million euros, the FIA, the world’s governing body for motorsports, closed the 2025 fiscal year with a substantial surplus. Profit rose by a whopping 43 percent compared to the previous year. This financial success is attributable, in part, to the cost-cutting measures implemented by FIA President Mohammed bin Sulayem.
This is the federation’s strongest operating result in ten years. Since 2021, the FIA has shifted its strategy to better position itself financially for the future. This effort appears to have borne its first significant fruit in 2025, after the FIA returned to profitability for the first time in 2024. By comparison, in 2021, the FIA posted an operating loss of 24 million euros.
But how did the FIA pull this off? Operating cash flow rose to 53.7 million euros, while cash on hand doubled to 43.6 million euros by the end of the year. In addition, there was no financial debt. This result could benefit motorsports in the future, as well as mobility in general.
Key Revenue from Motorsports
The surplus funds could be invested in FIA championships, member clubs, staff, road safety, sustainability, and mobility programs. Some areas have already proven to be extremely profitable. These included the development of a new promoter process for the World Rally Championship (WRC) under improved commercial terms, a strong performance by the World Endurance Championship (WEC), and the implementation of new regulations.
The long-term contract extension with the promoter of the Formula E World Championship, Formula E Holdings Limited, generated revenue of 20 million euros. In addition, new partners—including global brands and technology experts—have contributed to the growth of overall revenue. These include companies such as DHL, Rolex, Hankook, AlphaTauri, Siemens, and Tomorrow.io.
Despite cost-cutting measures, the FIA hired more permanent staff in 2025. There were 308 permanent employees, about 14 percent more than the previous year. This investment in expertise is expected to continue to pay off over the coming years. According to the FIA, these employees are the cornerstone for implementing all projects in the areas of motorsport and mobility efficiently and cost-effectively.
Cost-Cutting and Discipline
“Six months into my second term as FIA President, I remain committed to ensuring profitable and financially sustainable operations,” says FIA President bin Sulayem. “Today, I am proud that we have continued to fulfill this mission by achieving the FIA’s strongest operating result in ten years and building on the significant progress made since 2021.”
“Improving the FIA’s governance, transparency, and financial health was a central promise in my election platform, and we have transformed the organization into a more resilient and professional federation.”
“I will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to drive positive change throughout the FIA and create long-term value for our member clubs, our championships, our employees, and our global mobility and motorsports communities.”
The FIA reported a strong financial position at year-end: Cash and cash equivalents accounted for 73 percent of the balance sheet—a 6 percent increase year-over-year. The equity ratio stood at 49 percent, and there was no financial debt.
