The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) sanctions the Formula One World Championship.
The FIA is Formula One’s international governing body. It establishes and enforces the sporting, technical, financial and safety regulations that shape each championship season. The championship is officially titled the FIA Formula One World Championship, and the FIA awards separate world titles for drivers and constructors.
The FIA does not operate Formula 1 as a commercial entertainment business. Commercial rights are managed by Formula One Management and related Formula 1 Group entities, while the FIA remains responsible for sporting governance, regulation, officiating frameworks and championship certification. That division is why the FIA and Formula 1 are closely linked but are not the same organisation.
A common mix-up is confusing the FIA with national motorsport authorities or with other racing bodies. NASCAR governs its own stock-car competitions, the ACO is associated with the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the World Endurance Championship, and the FIM governs motorcycle sport. None sanctions the Formula One World Championship.