The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) is the international governing body for motorcycle racing. It oversees 122 national federations across six continental unions, ensuring consistency and safety in motorsport worldwide.
Seven Disciplines Define Motorcycle Racing
FIM regulates seven primary racing disciplines: enduro, trial, circuit racing, motocross and supermoto, cross-country, e-bike, and track racing. These include 82 world championships and numerous secondary competitions. Beyond racing, FIM promotes rider safety, environmental sustainability, and public policies that support motorcycling.
Environmental Leadership
In 1994, FIM became the first international sports federation to publish an Environmental Code. This initiative set standards for reducing the environmental impact of motorcycle events. In 2007, FIM established its Commission for Women in Motorcycling to encourage female participation in the sport.
A Century of History
FIM originated as the Fédération Internationale des Clubs Motocyclistes (FICM) on December 21, 1904, in Paris. The British Auto-Cycle Union was among its founding members. Although dissolved in 1906, FICM was revived in 1912 with headquarters in England. Its first major event was the Six Days Reliability Trial in 1913.
In 1949, FICM became FIM and launched the Road Racing World Championship Grand Prix. Headquarters moved to Geneva in 1959 and later to Mies, Switzerland, in 1994. The name was updated again in 1998 during a congress in Cape Town. That same year, FIM gained recognition from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), achieving full status at the Sydney Olympics in 2000.
Modern Developments
Since 2018, Jorge Viegas of Portugal has served as FIM President. In response to geopolitical tensions like the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, FIM banned Russian and Belarusian riders and teams from its competitions.
Competitions Under FIM
Road Racing Events
FIM organizes prestigious road racing championships such as:
- MotoGP, Moto2, Moto3, and MotoE World Championships
- Superbike and Supersport World Championships
- Talent Cups like Asia Talent Cup and British Talent Cup
- JuniorGP World Championship
Off-Road Racing Events
Off-road racing includes diverse formats such as:
- Motocross and Supercross World Championships
- Trial and Enduro World Championships
- Ice Speedway and Speedway World Championships
- International Six Days Enduro
- Supermoto of Nations
Helmet Testing for Safety
In 2019, FIM introduced its own helmet testing protocol. Manufacturers must submit helmets for rigorous lab testing to ensure they meet safety standards for protecting racers during high-speed crashes.
Presidents Over Time
FIM has had notable leaders since its inception:
| Term | President | Nationality |
|---|---|---|
| 1904–1905 | A. de Lahausse | France |
| 1949–1951 | Marcel Haecker | Switzerland |
| 2018–present | Jorge Viegas | Portugal |
Legacy of Excellence
FIM’s efforts have shaped motorcycle racing into a global phenomenon while prioritizing safety and sustainability. From pioneering environmental codes to fostering inclusivity through women’s commissions, FIM continues to lead innovation both on and off the track.
Citations:
This article may rely excessively on sources too closely associated with the subject, potentially preventing the article from being verifiable and neutral. (November 2018) |
The International Motorcycling Federation (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme) or (FIM) is the global governing/sanctioning body of motorcycle racing. It represents 123 national motorcycle federations that are divided into six continental unions.
.svg){kind=logo} FIM logo since 8 January 2024 | |
| Sport | Motorcycle sport |
|---|---|
| Jurisdiction | International |
| Abbreviation | FIM |
| Founded | 1904 |
| Headquarters | Mies, Switzerland |
| President | Jorge Viegas |
| Official website | |
| www | |
There are seven motorcycle-racing disciplines that FIM covers, encompassing 82 world championships as well as hundreds of secondary championships: enduro, trial, circuit racing, motocross and supermoto, cross-country, e-bike, and track racing. FIM is also involved in many non-racing activities that promote the sport, its safety, and support relevant public policy. The FIM is also the first international sporting federation to publish an Environmental Code, in 1994. In 2007, a Commission for Women in Motorcycling was created by the FIM in order to promote the use of powered two-wheelers and the motorcycle sport among women.