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FIA Historic Awards celebrate excellence in motor sport
The prestigiousFIA Historic Awardstook place on January 28, 2026, at the renownedAutomobile Club de Francein Paris. This annual event celebrated excellence in historic motor sport, showcasing the achievements of competitors, organizers, and officials dedicated to this captivating field. Surrounded by a rich motor racing heritage, the ceremony united a diverse community passionate about historic vehicles.
Among the notable attendees wasFIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who opened the event by reflecting on his experiences in rallying. He emphasized the FIA’s commitment to preserving the legacy of competition vehicles through itsHistoric Department. The presence of esteemed figures such asYann de Pontbriand, president of the Automobile Club de France, andRoger Wills, president of the FIA Historic Motor Sport Committee, highlighted the event’s significance.
A year of fierce competition
The ceremony began with a focus on the achievements of the past year, marked by intense competition across Europe’s challenging venues. TheFIA European Historic Hill Climb Championship, the oldest championship on the FIA calendar, was celebrated for its remarkable legacy dating back nearly a century. In 2026, this series featured a competitive season, culminating in the crowning of champions across various categories.
Recognizing exceptional talents
This memorable evening recognized champions for their outstanding performances.Harald Mösslersecured the Other category winners includedChristian Trimmel, with hisFord Escort RS2000, alongsidePiero LottiniandPetr Tykal, each demonstrating their skills in their respective categories. Austria’s exceptional performance earned them the FIA European Historic Hill Climb Nations Cup for the third consecutive year, showcasing their collective talent.
Historic rallying takes center stage
The spotlight then turned to theFIA European Historic Rally Championship, which has seen a rise in participation and competitiveness. For the first time, vehicles homologated between 1993 and 2000 were permitted to compete under the newly updatedAppendix Kregulations. This change broadened the range of iconic vehicles, enriching the championship’s diversity.
Celebrating the spirit of competition
Throughout the season, special awards recognized the values of historic rallying beyond results. TheRally of the Yearaward was presented to theArdeca Ypres Historic Rally, whileFintan McGradyreceived the title for theBest Presented Carfor his strikingFord Escort RS1800. Other awards included theSpirit of the Championship, presented toEnrico BrazzoliandMartina Musiari, and theSpecial Contribution to Historic Rallyawarded toSiegfried and Renate Mayr, acknowledging their three-decade commitment to historic rallying in Europe.
TheFlexiFly Rally Teamsecured the coveted FIA EHRC Teams Trophy after an exhilarating season that captivated fans.
Looking ahead to the future
The evening concluded with the announcement of the FIA European Historic Rally Championship titles, withJari-Matti Latvalaemerging as the 2026 FIA European Historic Rally Champion. Driving aToyota Celica GT4, Latvala triumphed in a thrilling finale at the Historic Rally Fafe, overcoming fierce competition from former tennis starMaciej LubiakandWill Grahamof the FlexiFly Rally Team.Grzegorz Dachowskiwas honored as co-driver of the year for his outstanding performances throughout the season.
In his closing remarks, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem expressed gratitude to all involved, emphasizing the importance of preserving thesporting heritagethrough such championships. As the 2026 awards ceremony concluded, anticipation builds for the upcoming season, which promises an exciting evolution in the FIA European Historic Rally Championship with the introduction of three distinct competitions.
This initiative aims to enhance the competitive landscape while prioritizing historical accuracy. As the FIA champions the growth of historic motor sport, the future appears promising for both competitors and enthusiasts alike.