Long Beach, CA, December 10, 2025 – Thierry Goger, a distinguished leader in transport research and European affairs, has been honored with the International Road Federation’s highest individual recognition on the opening day of the 8th IRF Global R2T Conference & Exhibition in Long Beach, California, USA.

Established in 1951, IRF’s Man (or Woman) of the Year award celebrates exemplary professionals from public, private, and academic sectors who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and unwavering dedication to the road transport industry. Over the decades, this prestigious accolade has recognized pioneering figures whose work in advocacy, policy development, research, and education has contributed to safer, more resilient, and more sustainable road networks around the world.

Mr. Goger is being celebrated for his remarkable leadership as Secretary General of FEHRL (Association of European National Road Research Centers). A visionary strategist and committed facilitator of cooperative research and innovation, he has championed transformative initiatives in road and transport infrastructure. His extensive experience in policy briefing, research grant management, and accelerating the deployment of research results has positioned him as one of Europe’s foremost voices in forward-looking mobility solutions. Mr. Goger has served as Coordinator and Partner in several major European research programs, including the Horizon Project Augmented CCAM, strengthening international collaboration in connected, cooperative, and automated mobility.

According to IRF Global Chairman Emeritus for Life Abdullah Al-Mogbel, “Thierry Goger exemplifies the spirit of innovation and international cooperation that lies at the heart of the IRF. His leadership in advancing research-driven solutions for road and transport infrastructure has had a profound influence far beyond Europe. Thierry’s commitment to creating safer and more sustainable mobility systems embodies the core values of this Award.”

Commenting on this recognition, Thierry Goger stated: “Research and innovation are by nature demanding and time-consuming endeavors. In the field of infrastructure—where progress is measured over long horizons—working in R&D, particularly in road infrastructure, means waiting years to see the tangible results of one’s efforts. Today, thanks to the IRF Global ‘Man of the Year’ Award, the outcomes and impact of the work undertaken in the last 10 years with my colleagues are being recognized. I am truly delighted and deeply honored to receive this award, and I extend my sincere gratitude to IRF Global.”