The start of the 2019 edition of the FIA Volunteers Weekend was celebrated at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli today.
 
Competitors and officials gave their appreciation to volunteers throughout motorsport at the opening FIA European Truck Racing Championship rounds held this weekend.
 
The drivers posed on the starting grid ahead of the action where both competitors and the new Ford F-MAX, as well as the official FIA ETRC Mercedes-Benz Pace Trucks were sporting FIA Volunteers Day decals.
 
The European Truck Racing Association [ETRA] and the Misano circuit organisers also got together many of the volunteers in the pitlane where FIA Volunteers branded caps and t-shirts were distributed.
 
Now in its third year, the FIA initiative aimed at highlighting the work of motor sport volunteers around the world has become a key event in the calendar, ensuring that the important message of thanks reaches the thousands of volunteers who dedicate their time to make motor sport possible. It is also a catalyst for encouraging new volunteers to the sport.

Throughout the weekend, the entire motor sport community – from volunteers and officials to fans, drivers and members of the media – are encouraged to join in and show their appreciation on social media using the hashtag #FIAVolunteersWeekend on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
 
“Volunteers are the unsung heroes of motor sport. Without them, quite simply, we would not be able to go racing,” said FIA President, Jean Todt. 
 
“It is important for the FIA to recognise their vital contribution, and the occasion of the FIA Volunteers Weekend shines the spotlight on their hard work and dedication to ensuring the safety and success of events the world over.
 
“This is also an opportunity to promote the positive benefits that volunteers gain from their involvement, and help attract new people to motor sport.”

A variety of activities was taking place at Misano to thank the marshals, race officials and medical staff who devote their time with no financial remuneration. 
 
FIA ETRC Race Director, Tony Iddon, who can call upon five decades of motorsport experience, gave his own appreciation of the outstanding work done by volunteers at the official Drivers Briefing.
 
“The work that is carried out by enthusiastic, knowledgeable and skilled volunteers in motorsport is outstanding," said Iddon.
 
“Without them, the events would simply not be able to function to the high level we see across the world today. Their dedication is highly impressive and to officially say ‘thank you’ to them all today. They deserve all our respect and acclaim.”
 
To see how you can help spread the message of the FIA Volunteers Weekend message please click HERE