Published on
March 22, 2026
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The first-ever UN Tourism Awards for Excellence in Sustainable Sports Tourism have been unveiled by the FIA and UN Tourism, bringing recognition to outstanding projects across the globe that combine sport and tourism in an eco-conscious manner. These prestigious awards aim to showcase the leading sustainable initiatives in sports tourism, celebrating efforts that have a positive environmental, social, and economic impact. The winners, selected from over 70 applications worldwide, were announced during a ceremony in Madrid, coinciding with the ABB FIA Formula E CUPRA Raval Madrid E-Prix.
A New Era of Sports Tourism: The Award-Winning Projects
The UN Tourism Awards for Excellence in Sustainable Sports Tourism highlight projects that showcase sustainable practices and environmental consciousness. Each winner was selected based on their ability to balance sport with tourism, making a long-term impact on the environment, the local community, and the economy.
Most Sustainable Sport Event: Secto Rally Finland
The winner in this category, Secto Rally Finland, is an outstanding example of a sporting event that leads the way in sustainability. This rally, organised by AKK Sports Ltd. in Finland, has pioneered ISO 20121 certification and has become an integral part of Finland’s sustainable tourism offerings. The event is known for its rigorous eco-friendly measures, including efforts to reduce waste and promote clean energy during its activities, setting a high bar for the industry.
Community Impact in Sports Tourism: Salomon Cappadocia Ultra Trail, Turkey
In a category that celebrates the social impact of sports tourism, Salomon Cappadocia Ultra Trail, held in the heart of Türkiye, emerged as a winner. Organised by the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency and Argeus Travel & Events, this event has garnered attention for its integration of local communities. The race attracts visitors while benefiting the region’s economy and promoting the preservation of Cappadocia’s natural beauty.
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Innovation in Sports Tourism Development: Saalfelden Leogang, Austria
Saalfelden Leogang, a region known for its mountain biking trails, received recognition for its commitment to eco-friendly tourism development. The Nature-Driven Performance project, led by Saalfelden Leogang Touristik GmbH, offers innovative approaches to sustainable tourism. The destination has embraced green practices, reducing its carbon footprint while enhancing the visitor experience with nature-focused activities.
Outstanding Public-Private Partnership in Sports Tourism: MadCup Universe, Spain
The MadCup Universe project, a collaborative effort between public and private sectors in Spain, was recognised for its significant contribution to sustainable sports tourism. The event focuses on creating an inclusive environment for sports fans and participants while prioritising environmental responsibility. It serves as a model for future projects aiming to integrate sports with sustainable tourism practices.
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FIA President’s Exceptional Award: Tirana – European City of Sports 2023, Albania
Tirana, Albania, was honoured with the FIA President’s Exceptional Award for its efforts to promote sports tourism. As the European City of Sports for 2023, Tirana has demonstrated a commitment to using sports as a catalyst for social change and tourism growth. The city’s ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and sustainability have made it a shining example of what other cities can aspire to.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Exceptional Award: WRC UENO Rally of Paraguay 2025
The WRC UENO Rally of Paraguay 2025, organised by Paraguay’s SENATUR, received the UN Tourism Secretary-General Exceptional Award. This recognition acknowledges the event’s efforts to promote sustainable practices while showcasing the beauty of Paraguay’s natural landscapes. The event is set to have a lasting impact on the local community by providing economic benefits while preserving the environment.
The Importance of Sustainable Sports Tourism
The FIA and UN Tourism’s initiative comes at a crucial time when the global tourism industry is focusing on sustainability. As tourism grows, it is essential that it is done in a responsible manner that protects the environment and benefits local communities. These awards recognise the growing trend of eco-conscious travel and sports events that contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.
The collaboration between FIA and UN Tourism to create these awards strengthens their shared commitment to sustainable tourism. By recognising leaders in this field, the organisations hope to inspire others in the tourism and sports industries to adopt best practices and contribute to the global sustainability agenda.
Future of Sustainable Sports Tourism: A Growing Trend
The awards will continue annually, running from 2025 to 2028. The next ceremony is set to take place at the FIA General Assemblies Week in Shanghai this December. As global awareness of sustainability continues to grow, it is expected that more sports events and tourism projects will embrace sustainable practices, creating a positive legacy for future generations.
This initiative aligns with the FIA’s broader commitment to clean energy and sustainability, particularly in motorsports. With every FIA Formula One Championship team now achieving a 3-star rating in the FIA Environment Accreditation Programme, it is clear that the future of sports tourism will be deeply intertwined with efforts to protect the planet.
A Bright Future for Sports and Tourism
These awards represent the intersection of sports, tourism, and sustainability, marking a turning point in the way the world views sports tourism. With the momentum behind sustainable development growing, it is hoped that the legacy of these awards will inspire further innovation and collaboration across the globe. Through the FIA and UN Tourism’s ongoing efforts, the sports tourism industry is poised to become a powerful force for positive change, ensuring that the future of both sports and tourism is greener, more inclusive, and more sustainable.
