Boodhoo receives commendation from FIA President ahead of GMR&SC election

In a significant validation of Guyana’s growing influence in the global automotive arena, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), has issued a high-level commendation of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) and its President Mahendra Boodhoo.

The correspondence, dated February 18, 2026, marks a pivotal moment for Guyanese motorsport, highlighting the successful integration of the GMR&SC as a Full Member of the FIA’s global network.

President Ben Sulayem’s message underscores the strategic importance of the GMR&SC’s position within a “powerful global network of 149 organisations”. This partnership is designed to empower the local club through several key pillars:

Technical Expertise and Funding: Providing the GMR&SC with the necessary tools and financial support to manage motorsport with “absolute confidence”.

Infrastructure and Visibility: Enhancing digital infrastructure to increase Guyana’s presence on the world stage.

Participation: Facilitating involvement in the world’s most prestigious racing events.

The FIA President specifically lauded the leadership of GMR&SC President Mahendra Boodhoo, noting that his tenure has been instrumental in reinforcing high standards of governance, cooperation, and development.

“Your leadership during this period has played a clear role in strengthening the GMR&SC’s engagement within the FIA family,” Ben Sulayem stated, acknowledging Boodhoo’s personal contribution to motorsport at both the national and regional levels.

Beyond the technical aspects of racing, the FIA’s commitment to the GMR&SC focuses on long-term growth and social responsibility. The joint mission aims to make the sport more accessible, more sustainable and more inclusive.

Through dedicated training and talent development, the FIA and GMR&SC are building the “strong foundations” required to ensure the sport’s growth for years to come.

As the GMR&SC prepares for its forthcoming Annual General Meeting, the endorsement from the highest office in world motorsport serves as a powerful testament to the club’s current trajectory. With the full backing of the FIA, Guyana is no longer just a regional participant but a respected player in the “World in Motion”.

Reflecting on this milestone, President Mahendra Boodhoo noted the long journey to this level of international standing. Boodhoo, who has been with the club since before it achieved its current status, recalled the pivotal transition under former FIA President Jean Todt.

“It is a profound honour to receive this endorsement from the FIA President,” Boodhoo stated.

“I have been dedicated to this club since before the GMR&SC achieved Full Member status. I recall with pride our transition to full membership under then-President Jean Todt, whom I had the pleasure of welcoming to Guyana. Today, it is a privilege to continue this work under President Ben Sulayem, ensuring our club remains a vital part of the global racing family.” (Press Release)