Casa Ecuador Makes History with Its Debut at Formula 1 in Abu Dhabi

Casa Ecuador's Historic Debut at Formula 1

Casa Ecuador - The Embassy of Nature has made a significant entry into the Middle East, successfully concluding its inaugural presence at the Etihad Airways Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This event marked a monumental occasion as Ecuador became the first nation to set up a national pavilion at an F1 Grand Prix, reflecting the country's commitment to showcase its cultural and environmental wealth on a global stage.

Located strategically behind the Formula 1 paddock, the pavilion attracted approximately 60,000 visitors each day over the four days of the race weekend. This impressive turnout underscored Casa Ecuador's impact and solidified its role as a highlight of the F1 calendar. The innovative pavilion, designed by the Ecuadorian NGO Fundación Identidad Nacional, provided an immersive experience that celebrated the cultural, environmental, and culinary diversity of Ecuador.

One of the centerpieces of the exhibit was an engaging multisensory cacao journey that not only illustrated the incredible biodiversity of Ecuador's Amazon but also took visitors through the journey of cacao, highlighting its transformation into some of the world’s finest chocolate. This experience further emphasized Ecuador’s position as a leader in sustainable agriculture and a premier source of various high-quality cacao types.

The pavilion featured a breathtaking floral installation composed of over 100,000 Ecuadorian roses sourced from Sunrite Farms. Known for their vibrant colors and quality, these roses became a focal point for photography and attention at the Yas Marina Circuit during the Grand Prix. The installation resonated with Ecuador's deep-rooted connection to nature and signified the country's flourishing agricultural exports.

Visitors enjoyed a myriad of experiences, including 360-degree projections, digital art displays, natural soundscapes, and curated tastings that showcased the gastronomic richness of Ecuador's diverse regions, including the Coast, Andes, Amazon, and Galápagos Islands. This flourishing interest in Ecuador's culture and biodiversity speaks to the growing economic potential and connection within the Gulf region.

Luis Felipe Fernández-Salvador y Campodonico, the founder of Fundación Identidad Nacional and cultural ambassador of Casa Ecuador, articulated the significance of the event during the Grand Prix, stating, "Casa Ecuador was born in Paris, matured in Madrid, and rose in Abu Dhabi. Not as an exhibition, but as a declaration—identity, creativity, and nature must be at the forefront of the global dialogue."

The spotlight was not solely on the pavilion during the Grand Prix. Casa Ecuador also hosted an exclusive experience at W Abu Dhabi, which featured an elegant terrace decorated with countless Ecuadorian roses, creating a visually stunning backdrop at one of the most iconic viewing points of the event.

On December 6, a landmark gala dinner was conducted at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Abu Dhabi, graced by officials and international business figures. The gala highlighted a bespoke menu adorned with 24-karat edible gold and included a live performance by renowned Oscar-winning musician Nicolas Becker. High-profile guests included royalty, cultural icons, and leaders from various sectors. Honors were awarded to individuals making strides in sustainability and creativity, with the awards inspired by the Palanda vessel, symbolizing humanity's bond with nature.

The Embassy of Nature, an ambitious initiative by Luis Felipe Fernández-Salvador y Campodonico, will make its global debut at the United Nations in 2024. This venture aims to assign value and economic agency to the planet's natural systems. By utilizing AI and blockchain technology, the initiative is poised to create investable ecological instruments that promote sustainability and global cooperation.

Following the successful launch in Abu Dhabi, Casa Ecuador plans to expand further, with future events scheduled in New York City during the FIFA World Cup, as well as in Miami and Madrid. This global trajectory aims to fortify Ecuador's cultural and diplomatic presence worldwide, emphasizing the importance of environmental awareness and cultural exchange.