Cayman Motoring Federation Officially Launched: Driving the Future of Motorsport and Mobility in the Cayman Islands

The Cayman Motoring Federation (CMF) proudly announces its official launch, marking a significant milestone for motorsport and mobility in the Cayman Islands. The launch event, held on May 30, 2024 at the new Hotel Indigo Cayman Islands, was a resounding success, bringing together motoring enthusiasts, government representatives, and key stakeholders from the motorsport community.

In attendance was Hon. Minister Isaac Rankine and Deputy Chief Officer Dr. Dalton Watler from the Ministry of Youth, Sports & Heritage. The launch of the Cayman Motoring Federation marks a significant step forward for motor sports and community engagement and CMF is committed to inclusivity and youth engagement.

Jane Scaletta, President of CMF, led the evening’s agenda which included arrivals and car viewing, an official presentation, and networking sessions. The CMF, established in 2022 and approved by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), is committed to offering innovative, specialized, and effective motorsport and mobility services to the Cayman Islands community.

“Today marks a historic milestone for motorsports in the Cayman Islands. The official launch of the Cayman Motoring Federation is a testament to our commitment to innovation, safety, and community engagement. We are excited to bring a new era of motorsport and mobility to our islands, with initiatives like sim racing esports, comprehensive training programs, and road safety campaigns. This is just the beginning of a journey that will drive forward the passion for motorsport and make a positive impact on our community. We thank everyone who has supported us and look forward to a future filled with thrilling advancements and achievements,” said Jane Scaletta.

Key Highlights from the CMF launch event included:

Welcome address from the President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile, celebrating the launch of the Cayman Motoring Federation and expressing gratitude for their commitment to motorsport in the Cayman Islands. He emphasized the importance of grassroots federations in fostering a love for the sport and developing future champions. The FIA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting these initiatives through programs offering funding, training, and resources. He highlighted the broader goals of passion, inclusivity, and community-building in motorsport. Encouraging the Federation to utilize these opportunities, the FIA pledged ongoing support to help build a vibrant motorsport scene in the Cayman Islands.

Daniel Coen, FIA Vice President of Sports N.A, was unable to attend due to flight challenges however sent his regards and shared that the “FIA is deeply committed to the growth and development of grassroots motorsport federations globally”. He mentioned the many initiatives launched by the FIA to support the growth of federations and that “this innovative approach removes barriers to entry, making motorsport more accessible to a broader audience”.

Motorsport in a Box supported by FIA funding, to provide training and education on slalom driving through a predefined obstacle course. This initiative is aimed at engaging the public and fostering a culture of safe driving.

As part of a partnership with iRacing.com, all 2024 CMF members will receive a 12-month iRacing licence, including access to the FIA F4 car. Motorsport governing body FIA and iRacing have announced the creation of the FIA F4 Esports Global Championship, an all-new esports series that will run July through to September. CMF will encourage members to participate in the new series of esports racing.

Sim racing esports through the CMF can bring numerous social, educational, and economic benefits to the Cayman Islands, making it a valuable addition to sports in the local community.

CMF will introduce racing esports at the upcoming Gamers Bay event in September, showcasing the growing discipline of esports within the FIA framework.

Two esports athletes will represent the CMF at the FIA Motorsport Games set to take place in Valencia, Spain in October 2024. Ian Charlery in esports F4 and Karyll Iton in esports GT.

The FIA University is an initiative aimed at helping FIA’s Mobility Clubs develop to their full potential. The FIA recognises the essential role of training as a key factor in achieving strategic goals and has created the FIA University to help its Members achieve their full potential.

The CMF will offer various training programs through FIA University, including modules on e-safety, environmental learning, leadership and management, and motorsport governance.

CMF is supporting the Cayman Islands Government’s “Road to Zero” pledge, aiming for zero road fatalities by . Additionally, the Federation will engage in the FIA Region III road safety campaign, promoting safe driving practices with a special attention to keeping youth safe.

Chief Officer Eric Bush from the Ministry for Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport & Development noted “The official launch of the Cayman Motoring Federation represents a pivotal moment in motorsports for the Cayman Islands. By integrating sim racing esports and other forward-thinking initiatives, the CMF is promoting a culture of road safety and responsible driving among our community. These efforts align perfectly with our Ministry’s commitment to reducing road fatalities and enhancing overall road safety. We are proud to support the CMF’s mission and look forward to the positive impact their programs will have on our infrastructure and the well-being of our citizens.”

With regards to racing safety, CMF will facilitate national and international racing licenses, promoting safe motoring and fostering a culture of responsibility among racers in the Cayman Islands. CMF has several educational projects lined up to support the reopening of Parker’s Raceway in 2025. Online courses for stewards and race directors, and on-island training through the FIA Officials training programme.

Chris Elliott from Jamaica highlighted his recent appointment to the FIA Drag Racing Commission and outlined plans to unify safety regulations for drag racing across the region. The goal is to develop a sustainable regional program with common rules, requiring support from competitors and stakeholders. Elliott recalls past successes from Cayman racers and expresses optimism for future growth and cooperation, pledging ongoing support to the CMF.

In 2025, the introduction of a karting program for young drivers, and initiatives to support women in motorsport through the Women in Motorsport Commission and Girls on Track program.

The launch event underscored CMF’s dedication to not only advancing motorsport in the Cayman Islands but also enhancing the community’s overall mobility experience. With robust support from the FIA, the Cayman Islands Government and local stakeholders, CMF is poised to become a central hub for motorsport activities and a driving force for road safety and innovation in the region.

For more information on the Cayman Motoring Federation and how to get involved, please visit Cayman Motoring Federation or contact us at info@caymanmotoringfederation.org .