FEMCA issues apology over World Championship cancellation

The governing body that represents 15 nations in Asia & Australasia and the IFMAR Bloc that is responsible for the staging of this year’s 1:12 and ISTC World Championships, FEMCA has issued a public apology to drivers over the cancellation of the races at Hongyu GDC in China.  FEMCA President Leonard Kee, who only took over as head of the bloc last May from long serving Trevor Reid, made the apology via a Facebook post on the FEMCA page in which he explains that the lack of necessary government approvals to host the races ‘blindsided both the organizer, GDC, and myself’.  From Malaysia and well known throughout Asia for his race announcing, Kee also stated that, ‘We understand there is a lot of rumor and speculation within the community, but we will not be engaging with conjecture’ adding ‘China and GDC remain top-tier in our community, with a venue many consider the finest.  I, too, felt deeply disappointed—an “Et tu, Brute?” moment—when those entrusted didn’t fulfill their role.’  With alternative venues being talked to by IFMAR in order to host the Worlds later this year, FEMCA is set to continue as the host Bloc with an announcement on the rescheduled date/venue imminent.

Dear Drivers,
I want to express my sincere apologies to all drivers and bloc representatives who placed their trust in me and FEMCA. The anticipated World Championship event will not proceed as planned, an outcome I deeply regret.

After issuing our postponement statement—triggered by local authority discussions and driver sentiment regarding safety—we discovered a breakdown in the official approval process. This unforeseen issue blindsided both the organizer, GDC, and myself. Promised approvals stalled due to administrative changes. GDC and the local authority are now working with a new administrator.

We understand there is a lot of rumor and speculation within the community, but we will not be engaging with conjecture. Our focus remains on the facts as we know them. GDC and I worked tirelessly for this event.  China and GDC remain top-tier in our community, with a venue many consider the finest. I, too, felt deeply disappointed—an “Et tu, Brute?” moment—when those entrusted didn’t fulfill their role.

To the many who offered support, thank you.  To those disappointed, I fully understand and again offer my sincerest apologies. We are committed to ensuring future events meet expectations through clear, verified processes.

Best regards,

Leo

Source: FEMCA [Facebook]