FIA SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME
MASTER IN INTERNATIONAL SPORTS MANAGEMENT
In partnership with ESBS European Sport Business School
DEVELOPING THE NEXT GENERATION OF GLOBAL MOTORSPORT LEADERS
FOREWORD FROM THE FIA PRESIDENT
Dear Aspiring Motorsport Professionals,
Motorsport may be defined by many by speed, but to be truly successful depends on far more. As a global industry, it requires visionary leadership, expert management, and innovative thinking. Behind every achievement on track is a network of talented individuals who combine strategic insight with passion.
Yet for many talented individuals around the world, the pathway to motorsport leadership may feel out of reach. Addressing this and expanding access is essential if we are to build a more diverse and dynamic future for our sport.
With this ambition at its core, the FIA, in partnership with the European Sport Business School (ESBS) in Spain, is launching a new Master’s in International Sports Management scholarship. Spain has a rich sporting heritage, where its world-class circuits and passionate fans have made it a proud home of world champions and host of races across our FIA championships - including an expanded two FIA Formula One World Championship Grands Prix and a first ABB FIA Formula E World Championship race held in Madrid in 2026.
As part of the FIA University ecosystem, this scholarship will equip the next generation of leaders with the skills, experience, and global perspective needed to lead in modern sport.
Since we launched the FIA Scholarship Programme, it has trained and inspired talented young students from around the world. By combining world-leading education, global opportunities, and financial support, our programme opens doors to exciting careers both on and off the track.
I have seen firsthand how opportunities like this have the power to transform ambition into achievement. As we launch our first scholarship in Spain, I encourage you to take this step and begin the journey to shaping your future in international sports management.
Sincerely,
H.E. MOHAMMED BEN SULAYEM FIA PRESIDENT
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
› The FIA Scholarship Programme offers a unique opportunity for aspiring motorsport professionals to access world-class education and gain direct industry experience.
› Delivered in Partnership with European Sport Business School (ESBS), the programme supports talented individuals from diverse backgrounds, particularly those facing educational or economic barriers to access, to pursue a Master in International Sports Management.
› This scholarship creates new pathways into motorsport for talented individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. By diversifying the talent pipeline, we ensure that potential, not background, shapes the future of the sport.
› The Master in International Sports Management originated in the sports industry in 2009 and is now recognized as one of the most valued sports management programmes in Spain and Europe. Since 2017, it has been ranked the Best Master’s in Sports Management in Spain and among the top 5 in Europe.
WHAT YOU WILL GAIN:
› The tools and knowledge to lead and manage sports organisations, facilities, and events in an international environment, delivered through a highly practical approach
› The ability to identify business opportunities and develop the management skills to act on them
› Strong managerial capabilities to lead in the global sports industry
Access to a global network of lecturers, industry professionals, and peers, enriched by hands-on experience
› First-hand insights into the management of major sports facilities and events through case studies and academic visits
› Practical, industry-led learning from professionals, university professors, and sports managers
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
› Academic sessions
› Conferences and industry visits
› Academic trip to Paris (Includes accommodation, airfare, and academic content)
› Internship opportunities in Spain and internationally
› Mentoring sessions to boost your professional profile
WHY CHOOSE ESBS?
The European Sport Business School (ESBS) is a leading institution in sports management education. Ranked 18th globally, 5th in Europe, and #1 in Spain for on-site sports management programmes (Source: SportsBusiness Rankings 2024)
As part of the international group ACE Education, ESBS offers an international learning environment across its Valencia and Madrid campuses, with a strong focus on industry engagement and employability. Its Master in International Sports Management combines academic excellence with practical experience, preparing graduates to succeed in the global sports industry.
THE FIA SCHOLARSHIP
SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT WILL RECEIVE
A €25,000 SCHOLARSHIP WHICH COVERS:
› Full tuition fees
› Contribution towards travel expenses and living costs in Spain
WE ARE LOOKING FOR:
› Individuals with proven work experience in motorsport or significant experience as an official, ready to transition into a professional leadership and management role
› Candidates with strong potential to contribute to their community and inspire new generation of motorsport professionals
› Highly motivated individuals with passion for motorsport and strong personal and interpersonal skills
› Priority given to candidates representing emerging motorsport countries
› Fluency in English or Spanish
› A Bachelor’s degree
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Applications are open and will close on 15th of May 2026.
If you have any further questions about the FIA scholarship programme, contact scholarship@fia.com or admissions@aceeducation.es
Submit the application form on fia.esbs-spain.com including:
a) Personal statement in video format in English or Spanish. Explain why you consider yourself to be a strong candidate for the FIA scholarship. (3 mins maximum length)
b) CV in English or Spanish
c) Copy of your diploma (bachelors or masters)
d) English language test certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo etc.), except for the students from majority English speaking countries or those with diplomas from these countries
e) Recommendation letter by a teacher or professional of the industry
ESBS will review applications using their standard admissions procedures and selected candidates will be interviewed before May 22nd 2026.
Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by the FIA in June 2026. The FIA will notify all interviewed candidates about the interview results and will announce the scholar.