The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide, hosted its Sustainable Innovation Series (SIS) in Montréal, kicking off the 2026 edition ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix.
Leaders from motor sport, technology, government and academia gathered to discuss one of the defining challenges of our time: how do we build transport systems that are safer, cleaner and smarter for everyone?
Co-hosted with FIA Region III Club, the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA), the event brought the Series to life under the theme “Track-to-City: Sustainable Innovation in Motor Sport and Mobility”, focusing on the technologies and partnerships that deliver practical change.
Motor sport has long been a proving ground for road innovation, from ABS brakes to advanced tire technology. Today, that same transfer is helping accelerate sustainable fuels, electric vehicle batteries, hydrogen performance and data-led transport systems that can improve safety, reduce emissions and ease congestion.
Willem Groenewald, FIA Secretary General for Mobility, Sustainability and Tourism, said:
“Motor sport has always been a proving ground for the precision thinking and technological ambition the world needs today. Through the Sustainable Innovation Series, we are making that connection explicit and actionable. The tools that make racing safer and more efficient can also save lives on public roads and cut emissions in our cities. The FIA was proud to launch this year’s Series in Montréal.”
Tim Shearman, CAA President and FIA Deputy President for Mobility, said:
“Montréal is an ideal place to launch the 2026 FIA Sustainable Innovation Series, bringing together a strong mobility and innovation ecosystem alongside an iconic motor sport event. Road safety, congestion, climate resilience and reliable transport affect people every day, and the discussions showed how data, AI and innovation can move beyond the track to deliver real-world benefits.”
The Montréal programme featured keynote addresses, expert panels and strategic exchanges on predictive mobility systems, AI-driven road safety and data governance. Speakers included representatives from the FIA, Formula 1, Transport Canada, Google, Siemens and the University of Toronto, among others.
The Sustainable Innovation Series will next convene at the FIA World Endurance Championship 24 Hours of Le Mans in France, taking the discussion into new regions, industries and communities of practice.
