Jeddah: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is scheduled to host the opening round of the E1 World Championship for electric powerboats for the second time at Jeddah's waterfront from January 24 to 25. The event is organized by the Saudi Water Sports and Diving Federation, under the supervision of the Ministry of Sport and in collaboration with the International Powerboating Federation.
According to Saudi Press Agency, through hosting this event, the Kingdom aims to protect the Red Sea coastline and affirms its commitment to a sustainable future for the Red Sea. This commitment aligns with the national strategy to protect the Red Sea's ecosystem, enhance collaborative efforts for its sustainability, empower communities, and promote the shift toward a sustainable blue economy that supports economic diversification in line with the Saudi Vision 2030 objectives.
E1 Series CEO Rodi Basso told the Saudi Press Agency that the championship was established in partnership with the Public Investment Fund to contribute to preserving underwater biodiversity by electrifying marine transportation. He noted that there is still a long way to go to achieve the desired goals within the next decade. Basso also described the E1 championship as a platform welcoming companies and groups worldwide to develop solutions for a more sustainable future for coastal areas.
The E1 World Championship for electric powerboats is one of the premier events overseen by the Ministry of Sport, aligning with its efforts to achieve various goals of the Saudi Vision 2030. These goals include promoting environmental sustainability, clean energy, and optimal investment in multiple fields, including sports. The championship also contributes to accelerating the growth of maritime sports in the Kingdom.
Hosting this event will enhance economic and social development, contributing to sustainability in the maritime sports sector and increasing future events, especially on the Red Sea coast. The Red Sea is one of the Kingdom's most biologically diverse and distinctive regions. It serves as a vital artery in global geography, connecting the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It is a crucial trade route between the East and West, encompassing a natural area of 186,000 square kilometers, a coastline of 1,800 kilometers, and the world's fourth-largest coral reef ecosystem.
Nine international teams owned by prominent figures, including Will Smith, Marc Anthony, Steve Aoki, Rafael Nadal, Sergio P©rez, Tom Brady, Virat Kohli, Didier Drogba, and Marcelo Claure, will participate in the championship. These teams are represented by 18 drivers competing in events held across seven cities worldwide throughout the year.
Last season's races were held in several cities, including Venice, Monaco, Puerto Banºs, Lake Como, and Jeddah. The title was claimed by Team Brady, owned by the American football star, after a fierce competition with Westbrook Racing.