Caymanian motor enthusiast Jon-Mikol Rankin is taking part in the 10-day Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) Immersion 2023 programme in Geneva, Switzerland.
The programme was launched in October 2022 “as part of the FIA commitment to promoting an inclusive learning and mentorship culture”, among members, according to its website.
“I am thrilled to be involved with the FIA Immersion programme,” Rankin said in a press release from the Cayman Motoring Federation. “This is truly a momentous occasion for me to display my enthusiasm about motorsports with the intention to learn as much as possible to build greater knowledge for the purpose of passing it on to the youths and people of our Islands.”
Rankin was selected to take part in the programme by the Cayman Motoring Federation, where he has been a long standing member and the Secretary of Bikes.
Federation president Jane Scaletta said in the release, “This is a historic moment in the life of motoring in the Cayman Islands. We are proud that the… federation is able to give a Caymanian, Mr. Rankin, this opportunity.”
He is one of 10 in the programme, which runs from 23-31 Oct., from nations including Algeria, Brazil, Hungary, Kenya, Malta, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.
The programme provides Rankin with the opportunity to visit the FIA offices in Paris and Geneva, learn from FIA teams, and ultimately create a custom development plan to bring home and implement at the Cayman Motoring Federation.
“The previous teams who participated in the Immersion from all over the world gave me a sense of intrigue to see the diversity and cohesion in this programme,” Rankin said. “I am looking forward to building lifelong relationships that will help aid the impact of our reach in our community through solidifying a first-class network of motorsport enthusiasts.”
The FIA, established in 1904, is the governing body of motor sport and promotes safe, sustainable and accessible mobility for all road users across the world, according to its website.
The expected experience
In the first part of his visit, Rankin learned about the FIA mobility and communications teams, whose mission is to position the FIA as the global voice of safe, sustainable and accessible motorsport and mobility.
Also part of the experience was a visit to the FIA Geneva headquarters where he met with FIA CEO Natalie Robyn, and explored various departments. These visits aim to serve as the foundation for tailored development plans, driving positive change in Cayman.
In addition, he was given an overview of the new motorsport funding procedures and an analysis of the FIA’s role in social responsibility, with particular attention paid to environmental sustainability.
Rankin’s trip included learning about FIA’s logistical and technical hub in Valleiry, France. At the moment, he is attending the Rallye International du Valais in Switzerland, as a member of the operational team, giving him a firsthand opportunity of how to run a successful sporting event.
Participants in the programme will also visit the sporting and safety departments to understand technical, safety and medical aspects related to motorsport.
They will also explore the possibility of creating new disciplines in their home countries. Additionally, the marketing and events team will share strategies for strengthening local partnerships.
Rankin will return home on 1 Nov.
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