Cayman joins Caribbean Drag Racing Championship as associate

Cayman joins Caribbean Drag Racing Championship as associate

by | Jun 7, 2025 | News

Parker’s Raceway, owned by Keith Tibbetts, is currently under renovation. – Photos: Parker’s Raceway Instagram

The Cayman Motoring Federation races full speed ahead as it becomes one of the newest associates to join the recently launched motorsports initiative Caribbean Drag Racing Championship.

Launched in February, this championship is a closed, invitation-only competition that unites the top drag racers within the Caribbean region. With a no-cost entry, racers are nominated by their National Sporting Authority to represent their country in the championship.

Since Caribbean Drag Racing Championship’s launch, racers across the region have begun accumulating points by competing in three of their locally staged national drag racing events in their respective countries.

The championship final will comprise the top 16 competitors in each of the two competitive classes — pro street (10.999 to 10.000 seconds) and pro race (9.999 to 9.000 seconds) — from all participating countries. That event is scheduled to take place in Jamaica in January 2026.

Jane Scaletta, CMF president, told the Compass that there are currently no dates set for Cayman to host qualifying races as our existing drag racing track, Parker’s Raceway, is under renovation with an anticipated reopening date for some time this year.

Scaletta says that CMF’s long-term goal is to field a fully supported Cayman drag racing team.

Local motorists competed in July 2022 at Parker’s Raceway in Breakers.

However, a Cayman racer can go to any approved country on the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile – better known as FIA – Caribbean Drag Racing Championship calendar to compete in three qualifying races.

“We are actively laying the groundwork by identifying interested drivers, providing foundational information from Caribbean Drag Racing Championship, and collaborating with regional federations for mentorship and support,” she said.

Scaletta added that Cayman has “many excellent and experienced drag racers”, like Keith Tibbetts, Trevor Mohammed and Ian Tibbetts, and although there are no current entrants for this championship, the preparation continues, nonetheless.

“In the meantime, drivers will continue training through simulations, educational slalom events, and travelling to nearby countries for on-track experience. Safety and proper guidelines remain top priorities as we develop a drag racing team locally for international racing,” she said.

Since 2022, the Cayman Motoring Federation has been the official national governing body for motorsports in the Cayman Islands and is recognised by the FIA, the highest international governing body for many forms of motor sport.

Scaletta said that this new collaboration aligns with the foundation’s vision to “expand Cayman’s presence in regional motorsport and provide structured pathways for local drivers to compete internationally”.

Cayman has joined the championship alongside Caribbean counterparts Antigua, Barbados, Grenada, Guyana, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Jamaica.

Stephen Gunter, chairman of the Jamaica Millennium Motoring Club, which spearheaded the Caribbean Drag Racing Championship, expressed his gratitude for Cayman joining the championship.

“We thank the Cayman Motoring Federation for joining the Caribbean Drag Racing Championship and for their dedication to the development of drag racing in the region. We look forward to working together in building out the Championship and expanding its reach and impact across the Caribbean,” Gunter said in a recent press release.

Chris Elliott, a member of the FIA Drag Racing Commission, added in the release, “We’re delighted to welcome the Cayman Motoring Federation to the Caribbean Drag Racing Championship.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to the growth of drag racing in the region. We look forward to supporting each other through technical assistance, event collaboration, and initiatives that elevate the sport in the Cayman Islands and beyond. Welcome aboard!”

For Scaletta, she views Cayman Motoring Federation’s involvement in this initiative as a gateway to Cayman eventually hosting the final competition in the future.

Persons interested in becoming a Cayman Motoring Federation member can do so at caymanmotoringfederation.org or by contacting them directly. Registration provides members access to various training programmes, events and esport opportunities offered by the foundation.

Building Cayman’s Esports Racing Community

Building Cayman’s Esports Racing Community

by | May 9, 2025 | Esports, News

The Cayman Motoring Federation (CMF) is on a mission to create something the Cayman Islands have never seen before: a thriving, competitive esports racing community.

It’s not just about gaming — it’s about building skills, creating new opportunities for young Caymanians, and preparing a new generation of athletes for the global stage, starting with the FIA Motorsport Games 2026 and beyond.

Here’s how we’re doing it — and why it matters.

Why Build an Esports Racing Community?

Esports racing (SIM racing) blends the thrill of motorsport with the accessibility of virtual technology.
It provides:

  • A low-cost, high-skill pathway into competitive motorsport.

  • A platform for young drivers to learn racecraft, strategy, and discipline.
  • Opportunities to represent Cayman internationally without traditional barriers like travel and equipment costs.

Building a strong esports racing community isn’t just good for competition — it’s an investment in Cayman’s future motorsport and STEM ecosystem.

The Road to FIA Motorsport Games 2026

After Cayman’s debut at the 2024 FIA Motorsport Games in Valencia, Spain, the momentum is building.
Now, CMF’s goal is clear: expand the talent pool, provide structured training, and field an even stronger esports racing team for the 2026 Games.

Our strategy includes:

  • Hosting Regular Local Competitions: Starting with Gamers Bay 9 (September 2025) to scout and develop top SIM racing talent.

  • Providing Professional Equipment Access: Creating training hubs with race-grade simulators.
  • Running Coaching Workshops: Teaching racecraft, car setup, fitness, and mental performance for esports athletes.
  • Fostering a Competitive Yet Supportive Community: Where young drivers can grow, learn, and push each other to new heights.

This is about more than one race — it’s about building a full pipeline of future esports racers, motorsport engineers, and team leaders.

Why It Matters for Cayman’s Youth

By building an esports racing community, CMF is giving Cayman’s youth: 🏎️ Access to a global sport they might not otherwise afford.
🚀 Real career pathways in motorsport, esports, engineering, and technology.
🛠️ Skill development in strategic thinking, teamwork, and discipline.
🌎 International exposure and the chance to represent Cayman proudly.

Esports racing also ties directly into CMF’s wider education efforts like STEM Racing Supported by F1, ensuring students can connect their passion for technology and speed with real-world skills.

FIA Motorsport Games 2026 is Just the Start

The FIA Motorsport Games are a major milestone, but they’re not the finish line.
By 2027, esports will take another leap with the first-ever Esports Olympics — and Cayman plans to be ready.

Every competition, every training session, and every new racer we nurture now brings us closer to that goal.

Join the Movement

Whether you’re a seasoned SIM racer, a beginner eager to learn, or simply passionate about motorsport, there’s a place for you in Cayman’s growing esports racing community.

Get involved today and help put Cayman on the global esports racing map — starting with the FIA Motorsport Games 2026.

🏁 Learn more and get involved
 📩 Contact us: info@caymanmotoringfederation.org

Top Takeaways from the FIA Smart Driving Challenge

Top Takeaways from the FIA Smart Driving Challenge

by | May 8, 2025 | News, Road Safety

In early 2025, the Cayman Motoring Federation (CMF) proudly hosted the FIA Smart Driving Challenge (FIA SDC), a global initiative aimed at making everyday driving safer, smarter, and more environmentally friendly.
The challenge engaged 69 drivers across the Cayman Islands and the results were truly inspiring!
Here are the top lessons we learned from this game-changing program:

1. Small Changes Make a Big Difference

The Cayman community achieved a 19% reduction in climate impact through better driving habits.
By adjusting simple behaviors like smoother acceleration, careful braking, and maintaining consistent speeds, participants significantly lowered emissions and improved their environmental footprint — all without making drastic lifestyle changes.

2. Safe Driving Can Be Fun and Competitive

Turning safe driving into a challenge added excitement!
With real-time feedback from the FIA SDC app, drivers were able to track their progress, improve their scores, and even compete for prizes.

🥇 Top Driver: Tanushree Perry (TheSwimmingGP) achieved a stellar score of 1467.4.
🌱 Top Eco Driver: Roger Southam (RJS) achieved a 29% reduction in climate impact.

3. Data-Driven Insights Are Key to Safer Roads

The FIA SDC used cutting-edge AI analytics to assess speed, braking, acceleration, and environmental impact.

Participants received instant feedback, helping them understand where they could improve.

This technology-driven approach offers a roadmap for smarter, safer, and more eco-conscious driving in Cayman and beyond.

4. Road Safety is Everyone’s Responsibility

Top Driver Tanushree Perry summed it up best:
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. This challenge gave me instant feedback and made me think about how I could be smarter, safer, and more economical every time I drive.”

The challenge reinforced that road safety isn’t just for government agencies or law enforcement — it’s a shared duty for every driver.

5. Cayman is Ready for a Safer, Smarter Driving Future

The enthusiastic participation and positive results from the FIA Smart Driving Challenge show that the Cayman Islands community is ready to lead by example.
Programs like these align perfectly with the Cayman Government’s #RoadToZero campaign to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries.

CMF is proud to support this movement and is already looking ahead to future challenges and new road safety initiatives.

Join the Movement

Did you miss this year’s challenge?
Don’t worry — more opportunities are coming soon!

Stay tuned for the next edition of the FIA Smart Driving Challenge, and be part of a growing community that’s committed to making Cayman’s roads safer, greener, and smarter.

Learn more at caymanmotoringfederation.org or email info@caymanmotoringfederation.org.

CMF: A Timeline of 2024 Successes

CMF: A Timeline of 2024 Successes

by | Dec 31, 2024 | Esports, Events, News, Road Safety, STEM

2024 marked a transformational year for the Cayman Motoring Federation (CMF).
From major international milestones to grassroots growth at home, CMF laid the foundation for a stronger, safer, and more exciting future for motorsport and mobility in the Cayman Islands.

Here’s a look back at some of our proudest moments:

May 2024

Road Safety Campaign Launch

We kicked off the year prioritizing one of our core missions: making Cayman’s roads safer for everyone. Our campaign aligned with the Cayman Islands Government’s #RoadToZero initiative, focusing on education, awareness, and behavior change.

May 2024

CMF Official Launch Event

In May, we celebrated the official launch of the Cayman Motoring Federation!
Our inaugural event gathered government leaders, community supporters, and motorsport enthusiasts to unveil our mission, programs, and big plans for Cayman’s automotive future.

Sep 2024

Esports Debut at Gamers Bay 8

Motorsport SIM racing officially arrived in Cayman!
At Gamers Bay 8, 167 participants experienced the thrill of iRacing’s FIA F4 car — introducing the public to the skill and excitement of virtual racing and opening a pathway for future international competition.

Oct 2024

Cayman’s Debut at the FIA Motorsport Games

A historic moment! Two Caymanian esports athletes represented the Cayman Islands at the FIA Motorsport Games in Valencia, Spain.

This first international showing put Cayman on the map in the global motorsport community.

Nov 2024

First Slalom Autocross “Motorsport in a Box” Event

Grassroots motorsport took off with the launch of slalom autocross. Designed to be accessible and fun, these community-based events help future drivers build skills safely and at a lower barrier to entry.

 

Nov 2024

F1 in Schools Launch

We introduced STEM Racing Supported by F1, bringing innovation, teamwork, and STEM education to students aged 11–19.

This program empowers Cayman’s youth to dream big through engineering and racing competitions.

Nov 2024

STEM Racing Supported by F1 – 02

FIA-Funded Officials Training

With FIA support, we hosted our first official training sessions for motorsport marshals and stewards.
Professional development ensures that Cayman’s motorsport events are safe, fair, and world-class.

Dec 2024

Full Federation Recognition by the FIA

In a major achievement, CMF was officially approved as a full member federation at the FIA General Assembly.

This recognition unlocks more resources, opportunities, and credibility on the world stage for Cayman motorsport.

Ongoing in 2024

Participation in Regional and Global FIA Events

We strengthened international relationships by attending key events, including the FIA Region III Congress in Canada and the FIA General Assembly in Rwanda.

What Full FIA Recognition Means for the Cayman Islands

What Full FIA Recognition Means for the Cayman Islands

by | Dec 20, 2024 | News

In December 2024, a major milestone was achieved: the Cayman Motoring Federation (CMF) received full federation recognition from the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) the global governing body for motorsport and mobility.

 

This achievement is a game-changer for Cayman. Here’s why:

1. Global Legitimacy

FIA recognition officially positions CMF and the Cayman Islands on the world motorsport and mobility. As a full member, CMF now has the authority to:

  • Oversee all sanctioned motorsport activities in the Cayman Islands.
  • Certify officials, stewards, marshals, and drivers to international standards.
  • Represent Cayman’s interests in FIA global discussions and policymaking.

This recognition ensures that Cayman’s motorsport and mobility programs meet world-class standards.

2. Access to Resources and Expertise

As an FIA member, CMF can now tap into a global network of resources, including:

  • Technical training and development programs.
  • Financial grants for safety, grassroots, and youth initiatives.
  • Best practices from other national federations.
  • Support for building programs like road safety campaigns, STEM education, and sustainable mobility.

This opens doors to faster growth, better training, and stronger event development for Cayman.

3. Bigger Opportunities for Caymanian Athletes

FIA recognition means Cayman’s athletes can now:

  • Compete officially under the Cayman flag at FIA-sanctioned international events, like the FIA Motorsport Games and future competitions.
  • Access structured development pathways from karting to SIM racing to circuit racing and beyond.
  • Aspire to careers in motorsport management, officiating, engineering, and more.

With this new platform, Cayman’s next generation can dream and achieve global success. 

4. Stronger Road Safety and Mobility Initiatives

The FIA isn’t just about racing — it also leads the global effort to promote road safety and sustainable mobility.
With CMF now a full member, Cayman has stronger backing to:

  • Launch and expand programs like the FIA Smart Driving Challenge.
  • Support the Cayman Islands Government’s #RoadToZero road safety strategy.
  • Advocate for greener, smarter, safer transport solutions in our islands.

5. National Pride

Achieving FIA full membership isn’t easy. It requires demonstrated commitment to governance, safety, development, and community engagement.

CMF’s acceptance into the FIA family is a recognition of the hard work, passion, and vision of Cayman’s motorsport community and a proud moment for our entire nation.

Together, we are putting Cayman on the world map — not just as a motorsport nation, but as a leader in innovation, safety, and opportunity.

Stay tuned, and join us as we drive into the future!