from FIA Karting
The FIA is deeply saddened by the death of Jaakko Markula, who passed away on 6 November 2025 at the age of 79.
Initially involved in motor sport as a driver and co-driver, Jaakko Markula went on to play a major role in the development of the sport through his official positions within the AKK (Finnish ASN) and the CIK-FIA.
As a competitor, Jaakko Markula was not only very prolific, with no fewer than 333 entries to his name, but also very eclectic, starting out in navigation rallies before moving on to ‘sporting’ rallies and rally sprints, ice racing and circuit racing with touring cars.
A law graduate and entrepreneur, he had a long career with the AKK until his retirement. In particular, he held the positions of both head of training and sporting director.
Having been elected to the International Karting Commission (CIK-FIA) in 2001, he remained a member until 2020, and his involvement in the Commission was further strengthened for several years due to the role he was assigned as chairman of the CIK Sporting Working Group, which was, among other things, responsible for monitoring and developing the sporting regulations and drawing up the calendars for the CIK-FIA Championships, Cups and Trophies.
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In addition to this institutional role, he also served for many years as an International Steward and even, on several occasions, as Race Director at numerous CIK-FIA competitions. He was also one of the main instigators of the organisation of the very first Karting World Championship event held on Finnish soil, at Alahärmä in 2002.
The CIK-FIA extends its most sincere condolences to his wife Anja, his family and friends.
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