In the wake of our exclusive interview with a world-renowned motocross journalist, Pascal Haudiquert, the editorial team have received many questions about the association known as IMPA. IMPA is known in media circles around the world, but it is so exclusive that a public presence has never existed. There is no website or social media presence, simply so that the association remains as exclusive as possible. The inner workings of the association are crucial to the sport’s ability moving forward.
With so many questions received, we are honoured to provide a rare peek behind the curtain for the very first time. What is IMPA, you ask?
The International Motocross Press Association was formed in the mid-1990s by a collection of journalists, photographers and media specialists to work with the Federation Internationale de Motorcyclisme (the internationally renowned governing body based in Mies, Switzerland) and the promoters of the FIM Motocross World Championship to advocate for better working conditions, constant dialogue and acknowledgement of the high level of media professionalism for the series.
IMPA consisted of almost 50 members and was fiscally based in the Netherlands for the first ten years of its existence. The organisation was represented by an elected President, Vice-President and Treasurer and consisted of skilled personnel from five continents. IMPA negotiated with the promoters of the FIM Motocross World Championship for facilities and provisions worthy of a world championship event and campaigned for improved media centres, connection speeds, track access, safety and other amenities.
In 2023 and in the wake of the pandemic, IMPA is currently formed by 20 professionals and the present promotors of MXGP – Infront Moto Racing – distinguish IMPA media through special circuit admittance and preferential media centre services, in keeping with their status.
IMPA’s a classification of elite media. It’s a collection of journalists/photographers/media specialists that disseminate word of a 19-round, fourteen-country, seven-month series to a lofty standard and wide reach. What are the requirements for a new candidate? Wonder no more.
- The quality of the candidate’s published work must be judged and considered high level, and is of significant global reach, meaning that fans in countries across the world recognize it.
- The candidate must attend international motocross events regularly, showing full commitment to the sport and job at hand. Such that they have gained recognition through awards from industry figureheads and respect from peers who operate at that level.
- The candidate must show a high level of professionalism that includes influential and positive relationships with Grand Prix organisers.
