On January 26, 2025, LeBron James made a groundbreaking announcement that is set to transform the world of motorsport and reinforce his commitment to sustainability and community development. The NBA superstar is launching a new team in the UIM E1 World Championship, the world’s first all-electric race boat series, and forging a strategic partnership with AlUla, the ancient oasis city nestled in the northwest of Saudi Arabia. This exciting collaboration brings together the worlds of sport, innovation, and environmental stewardship in a bold new way.
Team AlUla, Championed by LeBron James, will debut in the 2025 season of the E1 Championship, beginning with the highly anticipated E1 Jeddah GP held on January 24-25, 2025. The team will be piloted by skilled racers Rusty Wyatt and Catie Munnings, who are poised to bring their expertise and competitive spirit to the high-stakes world of electric powerboat racing. This debut marks a significant moment in motorsport history as AlUla’s legacy as a forward-thinking destination is further cemented on the global stage.
The partnership between LeBron James and AlUla goes beyond the realm of sports, focusing heavily on shared values of sustainability, innovation, and community engagement. AlUla, long renowned for its rich historical significance and breathtaking landscapes, is determined to position itself as a leading hub for sports and adventure tourism. This partnership not only serves to elevate AlUla’s global profile but also aligns seamlessly with the city’s vision of fostering high-profile events and championing athletes worldwide.
The development of AlUla as a destination is deeply rooted in the enhancement of its local community, and this commitment mirrors the philanthropic endeavors that have defined LeBron James’ career. In his hometown of Akron, Ohio, James has tirelessly worked to provide opportunities and support for underprivileged youth, particularly through his LeBron James Family Foundation and the I PROMISE School. Now, through his collaboration with AlUla, he continues to advocate for holistic development — both for communities and the environment.
The E1 World Championship is the perfect platform for this vision. Its all-electric boats represent a step forward in sustainable motorsport, and the series’ core values align closely with AlUla’s commitment to sustainability and regeneration. AlUla is a pioneer in holistic tourism, implementing measures that regulate visitor numbers, promote environmental awareness, and involve the local community in conservation efforts.
Central to AlUla's long-term development is its ambitious Sustainability Charter, which seeks to preserve the area’s natural and historical integrity while facilitating progress. One of the most impressive aspects of this charter is the designation of 50% of AlUla’s vast landscape as nature reserves, ensuring that development does not come at the cost of the region’s breathtaking landscapes or fragile ecosystems. Additionally, investments in eco-friendly infrastructure further demonstrate AlUla’s dedication to creating a sustainable future for both its inhabitants and visitors.
AlUla’s allure as a luxury heritage destination is further enhanced by its historical and cultural significance. As the home of Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, AlUla is a place where ancient history meets modern innovation. The city has earned global recognition for its seamless integration of cultural preservation and cutting-edge infrastructure, attracting discerning travelers and world-class events. AlUla has also become a notable player on the international sports calendar, hosting prestigious events such as the Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo, the AlUla Trail Race, and the AlUla Tour, among others.
Through its partnership with LeBron James and the E1 World Championship, AlUla is poised to continue expanding its influence in the global sports landscape. Team AlUla, Championed by LeBron James, will visit iconic cities around the world, including Doha, Monaco, and Miami, further solidifying the region’s status as a premier global destination for both sport and luxury tourism.
This innovative collaboration represents a perfect blend of history, modernity, and sustainability, reinforcing AlUla’s vision of becoming a world-class destination where both people and nature thrive. For LeBron James, it is another chapter in his ongoing mission to inspire future generations, champion sustainability, and support communities in ways that extend far beyond the basketball court. Through Team AlUla and the E1 Championship, the world is about to witness the power of sports to create positive change on a global scale.
