FIM Asia and OHVALE Explore International Motorcycle Sport Opportunities at Korea International Circuit
Yeongam, Republic of Korea – 29 August 2026
Representatives of FIM Asia and Italian motorcycle manufacturer OHVALE visited the Korea International Circuit (KIC) in Yeongam on Saturday, 29 August, for strategic discussions with the Federation of Motorcycle Sports Korea (FOMS Korea), local government representatives and regional sports organisations on the future development of motorcycle sport in the region.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders from FIM Asia, OHVALE, Jeonnam-Gwangju Integrated Special City, Yeongam County, the Jeollanam-do Sports Council, FOMS Korea and Korea Mobility Group. Discussions focused on the potential for KIC to become a hub for international motorcycle sport, rider development, professional training, international events and motorsport-related tourism.
Representing FIM Asia was Mohammed Rhiza Bin Ghazi, Vice-President, representing FIM Asia President Abdulrahman Al Mannai, together with FIM Asia Secretary General Franck Vayssié and Kendy Chan, Chair of the FIM Asia Circuit Racing Commission. OHVALE was represented by Marica Barbiero, Director of Global Business Operations.
FIM Asia President Abdulrahman Al Mannai, who was elected to lead the Continental Union for the 2026–2029 term, has placed continued cooperation among Asian National Motorcycling Federations and the development of motorcycle sport across the region among the key priorities of his mandate. (fim-moto.com)
KIC as a potential international motorcycle sport hub
The strategic consultation examined how KIC’s existing international-standard infrastructure could be connected more closely with FIM Asia’s continental network and international motorcycle sport programmes.
Participants discussed the potential to host international motorcycle events, rider training programmes, official and technical education, international meetings and other motorcycle-related activities at the circuit.
The objective would be to establish a sustainable programme capable of bringing riders, teams, officials and other motorcycle sport stakeholders from across Asia to Yeongam on a regular basis.
The discussions also considered the potential for cooperation between FIM Asia, FOMS Korea, regional authorities, sports organisations and private-sector partners to develop a long-term framework for international events and programmes at KIC.
Developing the next generation of riders and officials
Youth rider development was another major focus of the meeting.
Participants discussed establishing a structured pathway through which young Korean riders could receive professional training domestically while gaining opportunities to compete and exchange experience internationally.
The discussions extended beyond riders to the wider workforce required to stage international motorcycle competitions, including race officials, judges, safety personnel, medical teams and technical staff.
Such programmes could help KIC develop beyond its role as a racing venue and become a broader centre for motorcycle sport education and professional development.
Connecting motorcycle sport with the regional economy
The meeting also explored how international motorcycle activities could contribute to the development of the Yeongam region.
International events have the potential to bring riders, teams, officials and spectators to the area, generating demand for accommodation, restaurants, transportation and tourism services.
Participants discussed the possibility of developing sports tourism programmes linked to motorcycle events and training activities, while also creating opportunities for local companies in areas such as motorcycle components, equipment, safety products, advanced materials and mobility technology.
Cooperation with international companies such as OHVALE could provide additional opportunities for technology exchange and business development between Korean companies and the international motorcycle industry.
Strengthening international cooperation
The consultation was also viewed as an opportunity to strengthen the connection between Korean motorcycle sport and the wider international motorcycle community.
FOMS Korea said it intends to continue working with FIM, FIM Asia and other international motorcycle organisations to explore opportunities related to international events, certification and approval, event operations, rider and official education, youth development and overseas exchange.
The FIM Asia representatives highlighted the importance of combining high-quality circuit infrastructure with an international sporting network, experienced event operations and sustained support from local authorities and sporting organisations.
FIM Asia’s current leadership is headed by President Abdulrahman Al Mannai, who was elected by the FIM Asia General Assembly in January 2026. The Continental Union represents 30 Asian National Motorcycling Federations. (fim-moto.com)
Following the meeting, FOMS Korea Chairman Won Seong-yeok said that the organisation would continue working-level consultations with the participating organisations to translate the discussions into concrete initiatives covering international events, youth rider development, professional training, regional industry cooperation and sports tourism.
He also underlined FOMS Korea’s intention to strengthen its role as a bridge between Korean regions and the international motorcycle sport community, using its cooperation channels with FIM, FIM Asia and other international organisations.
Touring the Korea International Circuit
Following the strategic consultation, the FIM Asia and OHVALE representatives toured the Korea International Circuit, including the F1 track and Permanent Block.
The visit provided an opportunity to examine the circuit’s facilities and operational infrastructure and to discuss its potential for hosting a range of international motorcycle events and related programmes.
The meeting concluded with a shared view that KIC has significant potential as an international motorcycle sport venue and that continued cooperation between FIM Asia, FOMS Korea, local authorities, sports organisations and industry partners will be important in turning that potential into sustainable sporting and economic activity.
The parties agreed that the Yeongam meeting should serve as a starting point for continued cooperation aimed at strengthening Korea’s position within the Asian motorcycle sport community and supporting the long-term development of motorcycle sport in the region.
