MENA support puts Ben Sulayem in driver seat for F1 election
2 June 2025 00:35
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Twenty-nine member clubs of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) from the MENA region have added their support behind the re-election of the Formula One body president Mohammed ben Sulayem. The clubs have written in a joint letter of support to Ben Sulayem, saying that his tenure 'has brought vital reforms across mobility and motorsport, marked by enhanced transparency, governance, sustainability and inclusivity.'Backing him for a second term in office, they added, 'Your vision has helped bridge gaps, inspire unity and empower regions like ours to contribute more meaningfully to the global FIA mission. We now feel equal as members of the FIA, regardless of our size or location. We are proud to stand behind a leader from our region who has shown integrity, innovation and courage in driving positive change on the world stage.'Among the senior regional officials to sign the letter were Kuwait's Essa Al Failakawi as the MENA FIA Vice President Mobility and Bahrain's Abdulla bin Issa Al Khalifa as FIA Vice President for Sport for the MENA region.This follows the very powerful endorsement in an earlier letter of support from 36 member clubs across the Americas. The Emirati and former rally driver is now in pole position against his main contender Carlos Sainz, former F1 driver and father of the current Williams driver Sainz Jr, when the election is held on December 12 in Uzbekistan.Expressing gratitude to the leaders from the Middle East and the remainder of Africa for their support, Ben Sulayem said, 'This support holds special meaning for me, given my close connection to the region. I've seen first-hand... the work being done by clubs in both sport and mobility across the region reflects the core values of the FIA. Together, we will continue to shape a stronger, more dynamic FIA.'Verstappen Close to BanMeanwhile, in Barcelona, the season leader Oscar Piastri won the Spanish Grand Prix from pole position in a McLaren one-two with Lando Norris on Sunday while Max Verstappen was demoted from fifth to 10th after a late collision with George Russell's Mercedes. Piastri beat teammate and title rival Norris by 2.471 seconds for his fifth win in nine races this season, and McLaren's seventh, to stretch his championship lead to 10 points. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc completed the podium after passing Verstappen's Red Bull six laps from the end of a race that saved the drama to the end. Verstappen, who made four stops in total and ended up fighting on the slower hard tyres against rivals with softs, collided with Leclerc and then twice with Russell after a safety car restart with six laps to go.'I've seen those sort of manoeuvres before on simulator games and go-karting but never in F1,' said Russell of the four-times world champion Verstappen. 'I don't really know what was going through his mind.'Nico Rosberg, Mercedes 2016 world champion and now commentator, said Verstappen should have been black-flagged for what looked to him like intentional retaliation for the earlier contact. The driver was also given three penalty points to take his total tally to 11 for the 12-month period – one short of a one-race ban.
'I tried to push him to the left, there was a bit of contact but fortunately no consequences,' said Leclerc. Verstappen claimed the Monegasque had rammed into him and should have given back the place.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Gulf Today
2 hours ago
- Gulf Today
UAE approves criteria for Emirati students pursuing higher studies in foreign universities
In line with the UAE's strategic direction to enhance the quality and outcomes of higher education and human development, and to align its outcomes with national development goals and market needs, the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council (EHCD) has approved a set of criteria for Emirati students who wish to pursue their higher education outside the UAE. The criteria aim to enhance student's competence and readiness to enter the job market, and to regulate international scholarship options in accordance with the UAE's aspirations, national plans, priority sectors, and future developments, thereby supporting the optimal investment in Emirati talents. Through this initiative, the Council aims to empower students to make well-informed decisions based on clear criteria that ensures the quality of selected programs and academic institutions. It also seeks to enhance the value of the qualifications they obtain, supporting their future career opportunities both within the UAE and abroad. These criteria are derived from a clear vision to elevate the higher education experience abroad, by guiding students toward accredited and high-quality academic institutions and specializations. Students wishing to enroll in a higher education institution outside the UAE, whether at their own expense or through a sponsoring entity, are required to study at institutions recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, in accordance with the following approved classifications and standards: 1. The institution must be ranked among the top 50 universities worldwide in the intended field of study, regardless of overall ranking or country, according to the Ministry's approved international rankings. 2. If studying in the United States or Australia, the institution must be ranked among the world's top 100 universities in the intended field of study, and among the top 100 universities overall, according to the Ministry's approved international rankings. 3. If studying in any other English-speaking country (excluding the USA and Australia), the institution must be ranked among the world's top 200 universities in the intended field and among the top 200 universities overall, according to the Ministry's approved international rankings 4. If studying in a non-English-speaking country, the institution must be ranked among the world's top 300 universities in the intended field and among the top 300 universities overall, according to the Ministry's approved international rankings. The Council emphasised the importance of adhering to the specified criteria to avoid non-recognition of qualifications obtained abroad. Non-compliance may result in these qualifications not being acknowledged for purposes such as employment, promotion, study leave, exam leave, thesis discussion, or eligibility for qualification-related benefits within the federal government sector in the UAE. To ensure a transparent and a balanced approach, taking into account special cases, Emirati students who are currently pursuing their studies abroad, whether self-funded or sponsored by a scholarship entity, will be granted a one-year grace period from the effective date of this decision to adjust their academic status. A specialised committee, chaired by the General Secretariat of the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council has been established to review exemption requests. The committee will assess these requests based on precise criteria that consider the nature of the specialization, the academic institution, and the individual circumstances of each case, to support the students' best interests and enhance their educational and career opportunities. The Council also instructs the students and the relevant parties to communicate directly with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research for inquiries related to the approved criteria and the process for submitting exemption requests. This mechanism is part of a broader set of policies and initiatives being developed by the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council in coordination with relevant entities. These efforts are designed to enhance the quality of higher education, strengthen accreditation recognition system, and support Emirati students both within and outside the UAE. Such initiatives contribute to empowering Emirati talents, developing human capital, and nurturing generations equipped with the skills, capabilities, and knowledge that align with the UAE's aspirations and reflects its vision for the future. WAM
Zawya
3 hours ago
- Zawya
Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development signs agreement with Inovartic Investment
Abu Dhabi - Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED) has entered into a strategic agreement with the Inovartic Investment to enhance bilateral cooperation and support startups in the gaming sector in the UAE. At the centre of this agreement is a comprehensive framework designed to support early-stage gaming enterprises by offering incubation services, specialised training programs, and financial support. These initiatives will help developers design, build, and successfully bring to market original gaming content. Additionally, the agreement will deliver capacity-building programs to enhance expertise in areas such as game design and storytelling, in line with international best practices. A significant emphasis will also be placed on developing culturally inspired intellectual property that highlights Emirati heritage through authentic narratives, further supplementing the gaming sector with local content. To further accelerate innovation, the collaboration will focus on streamlining the commercialisation of gaming prototypes, enhancing investor pitch strategies, and improving pathways for successful launch of products in the market. Additionally, the agreement will pave the way for joint events and exhibitions that will showcase local talent and groundbreaking projects, increasing their visibility and impact on a larger scale. Mouza Al Nasri, Acting CEO of Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, said: 'This partnership represents a significant milestone in our commitment to supporting and empowering Emirati entrepreneurs within the gaming industry. By cultivating an environment that advocates creativity and innovation, we seek to unlock the capabilities of local talent in this dynamic field. Our collaboration with Inovartic Investment reflects our steadfast dedication to strengthening the knowledge economy and promoting sustainable development across diverse sectors, in alignment with the UAE's long-term national vision.' Saif Al Darmaki, Chairman and Co-Founder of Inovartic Investment, stated: "This agreement marks a transformative chapter in shaping the UAE's future creative economy. By uniting strategic incubators with the rich legacy of Emirati storytelling, we are empowering a new generation of game developers to craft globally resonant intellectual properties — rooted in Abu Dhabi's vision. Our collaboration with Khalifa Fund underscores a shared ambition: to drive innovation, celebrate local heritage, and position Abu Dhabi as the region's premier hub for gaming industry." Anwar Hussain, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Inovartic Investment, said: "We are honoured to partner with Khalifa Fund in driving transformative growth within the gaming industry. This collaboration goes beyond nurturing startups — it is about building a dynamic ecosystem where creative talent, cultural heritage, and global vision converge. Together, we are empowering Emirati innovators to redefine the gaming landscape, ensuring their influence extends from the UAE to the world stage." This partnership underscores the shared dedication of both organisations toward nurturing a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in the gaming sector. It marks a strategic move toward driving innovation and sustainable growth in the sector, while cementing the UAE's role as a centre for digital creativity. By providing financial support, skill development, and startup acceleration, Khalifa Fund and Inovartic Investment jointly aim to build an integrated ecosystem that supports the UAE's broader economic aspirations. Together, they strive to elevate Abu Dhabi's position as a leading regional hub for gaming, aligned with global standards, offering transformative opportunities and innovative solutions to entrepreneurs and creatives alike. About Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development: The Khalifa Fund is an independent, non-profit organisation affiliated with Abu Dhabi Government. Its mission is to nurture the culture of entrepreneurship, promote innovation, and offer support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the UAE through a balanced ecosystem. Founded in 2007 in accordance with Law No. 14 of 2005 and its amendments, the Fund was established to align with the vision of the late Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, former President of the United Arab Emirates. To learn more about the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, please visit: For further information, please contact: Orient Planet Group (OPG) Email: media@ Website:
Khaleej Times
5 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation and UNDP launch UAE's first game development bootcamp in collaboration with HP
More than 150 youth officially kicked off their journey into the gaming industry at the launch of the first cohort of the UNDP Al Ghurair Game Development Bootcamp, held on the sidelines of the Dubai Esports and Games Festival. The initiative, a collaboration between the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation (AGF), HP and United Nations Development Program (UNDP), is designed to equip 500 Emirati youth aged 18-35 with the technical, entrepreneurial, and leadership skills to pursue careers in game development and esports management. 'At HP, we are proud to support the UAE's vision by empowering the next generation of innovators with the skills and tools they need to thrive in the digital economy. This collaboration marks a significant step in shaping the future of game development and esports in the region, and we are excited to help these talented young Emiratis realise their potential and unlock new opportunities within this dynamic industry,' said Mayank Dhingra, Global Director of Education Strategy, HP. The event brought together students, educators, industry experts, and representatives from partner organisations. Speakers included Dr Yousef Al Assaf, President of RIT University in Dubai; Mona Ghander, Vice-President - Partnerships and Programmes at the AGF; Mayank Dhingra, and Gokhan Dikmener, Technical Specialist at UNDP's Istanbul Centre for Private Sector in Development. 'By unlocking access to in-demand digital skills, this bootcamp is opening doors for Emirati youth to participate and shape the future economy,' said Mona Ghander. 'We are proud to support the UAE's ambitions through inclusive learning models that turn passion into purpose and talent into transformation.' 'The UAE's gaming industry is growing fast, and I am really excited for the opportunity to learn game development and be part of what's coming next.' said Mariam al Dhefairi, a 24-year-old participant at the UNDP Al Ghurair Game Development Bootcamp. Emerging opportunities The event also featured a keynote address by Faisal Kazim, Head of Dubai Programme for Gaming 2033 who offered an inspiring look into emerging opportunities in the industry. Kazim said: 'The bootcamp naturally aligns with the objectives of the Dubai Program for Gaming 2033, which is focused on developing world-class talent and positioning Dubai as a global hub for game development. Video games today are more than entertainment – they're a powerful medium for storytelling, cultural expression, and economic growth. By investing in our youth and empowering them with the tools to create, we're enabling a new generation to share their stories with the world and lead the future of this dynamic industry.' By fostering digital skills and building a sense of community, the bootcamp contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 4 on Quality Education, SDG 5 on Gender Equality, SDG 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 9 on Industry Innovation and Infrastructure. 'This bootcamp is not just about learning to design games — it is about unlocking careers in creative industries and building soft skills. We are creating a space where innovation meets opportunity, and where the SDGs come to Technical Specialist of UNDP ICPSD. The bootcamp supports the UAE's Digital Economy Strategy and aligns with the Dubai Programme for Gaming 2033.
