January 24, 2025 — Jeddah is set to host the highly anticipated opening round of the E1 World Championship for Electric Powerboats, marking a major milestone for the Kingdom's growing commitment to sustainability and innovation in sports. The event, organized by the Saudi Water Sports and Diving Federation (SWSDF) in collaboration with the International Powerboating Federation, is scheduled to take place over two days, kicking off the first of seven environmentally conscious races to be held in cities across the globe.
Supervised by the Ministry of Sports and partnered with the Public Investment Fund (PIF), this championship represents a forward-thinking step in the Kingdom’s pursuit of integrating sustainability into its sporting events. The electric powerboat series not only showcases the Kingdom’s push for clean energy and environmental stewardship but also reflects its position at the forefront of international sports innovation.
The inaugural round in Jeddah will feature nine elite teams composed of top-tier international drivers. Each team consists of two pilots – one man and one woman – who alternate in commanding the electric powerboats during the race, intensifying the competition and introducing a dynamic blend of gender inclusivity and sporting excellence. This format adds an exciting layer to the competition, ensuring that both skill and teamwork are essential for victory on the challenging waters of Jeddah.
The championship itself emphasizes the shift toward eco-friendly sports while providing a platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies in marine propulsion. With the involvement of global stakeholders and the backing of the Kingdom's leadership, the event is set to make a significant impact in advancing the future of sustainable water sports.
As the first round of the E1 World Championship unfolds in Jeddah, it is not only a major sporting event but also an important milestone in the Kingdom’s vision to promote green energy, innovation, and sustainability in line with Saudi Vision 2030. The global attention drawn to this event further solidifies Saudi Arabia’s commitment to being a leader in environmentally friendly initiatives and innovative sporting ventures.