Motorsport South Africa is proud to announce that Steve Harding has been named the FIA Outstanding Official of the Year at the 2025 FIA Awards, held on 12 December in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The prestigious international honour recognises decades of service, leadership, and commitment to motorsport.
The FIA Awards for Volunteers and Officials celebrate those who work behind the scenes to ensure events are run safely, fairly, and professionally. Steve’s recognition places him among a select group of international officials whose impact on the sport has been lasting and far reaching.
Steve’s motorsport journey spans more than four decades. He began nearly 45 years ago as a club steward, following an early rally co driver career that ended due to injury, before progressing to become one of South Africa’s most respected senior officials. Since 1989, he has served on Motorsport South Africa’s National Court of Appeal, chairing numerous courts and enquiries, and playing a key role in achieving Gold Star ASN accreditation and Regional Training Provider status. From 2013 to 2022, he convened the Regional Training Programme, delivering courses across much of Africa.
Internationally, Steve has served as Clerk of the Course and Steward at numerous events, including FIA World Rallycross and FIA Formula E in Cape Town, and as Rally HQ Manager at the FIA World Rally Raid South African Safari Rally. He has also been closely involved in FIA development initiatives such as the FIA Rally Star African Continental Final and the FIA Young Driver Excellence Academy African selections.
Reflecting on the award, Harding said, “This honour belongs to the many officials and volunteers who work quietly behind the scenes at every event.”
Widely regarded as a mentor, Steve has helped develop a generation of officials, many of whom now hold senior roles nationally and internationally. Since retiring from legal practice in 2013, he has dedicated himself full time to motorsport, successfully introducing and managing new events, including FIA World Rallycross in South Africa.
Motorsport South Africa Chief Executive Officer Vic Maharaj said the award is “a moment of pride for South African motorsport,” praising Steve’s lifelong service, integrity, and commitment to developing officials across Africa.
Motorsport South Africa congratulates Steve Harding on this exceptional achievement.
