Riyadh, January 25, 2025 – The Drone Racing World Cup, sponsored by Riyadh Season and organized by the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones in collaboration with the World Air Sports Federation, continued to captivate both participants and spectators on the second day of competition. Held at Boulevard City, this thrilling event highlights Saudi Arabia’s increasing prominence as a global leader in technological innovation and drone sports. The excitement will culminate tomorrow, with the final race set to determine the champions of this high-stakes international competition.
On day two, the event saw the completion of the highly anticipated qualifying rounds, where over 140 skilled drone pilots from around the world competed for a chance to move on to the final stage. The intense competition continued as the final qualifiers took place, with 64 pilots securing their spots for tomorrow’s highly anticipated race. These pilots, having fought through a rigorous selection process, now prepare to race for victory, with the eyes of the global drone racing community focused on the SEF Arena in Boulevard City.
This year’s World Cup has attracted exceptional international participation, underscoring the growing global interest in drone racing as a major sport. Pilots from diverse countries have traveled to Riyadh to showcase their skills, with China leading the charge with approximately 15 registered competitors. Oman follows closely, sending more than 13 pilots, and other nations, including South Korea, have also contributed to the diverse pool of talent in the competition. The high level of participation demonstrates Saudi Arabia's position as a central hub for cutting-edge technology and innovation, bringing together experts from around the world to compete in a vibrant and exciting atmosphere.
The event has not only been a showcase for competitive racing but also an opportunity for enthusiasts and visitors to explore the broader world of drones. The Activity Zone at Boulevard City was bustling with a variety of interactive activities and experiences. Among the highlights were the Drone Hub, where cutting-edge drone technology was displayed, and Drag Racing events, which tested the speed and precision of the latest drone models. Visitors also had the chance to experience the "Fly Free" zone, where they could try their hand at flying drones under controlled conditions.
For those who wanted to experience the thrill of drone racing without leaving the ground, the VR Drone Racing experience was a crowd favorite. Using virtual reality glasses, attendees were transported into the heart of the action, simulating the exhilarating experience of racing drones at high speeds. The event also featured a series of engaging drone workshops, offering participants the chance to learn from industry experts and deepen their understanding of drone technology. These interactive sessions provided valuable insights into the future of drones and their diverse applications, from recreational racing to professional uses in various sectors.
With the competition set to conclude tomorrow at the SEF Arena, the Drone Racing World Cup is poised to deliver a grand finale with prizes exceeding SAR 1,300,000, adding to the excitement and intensity of the event. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s role as the host country for this prestigious competition not only highlights its leadership in drone technology but also reinforces its commitment to advancing innovation in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. By hosting world-class events like the Drone Racing World Cup, Saudi Arabia continues to position itself as a global destination for technology, sports, and cutting-edge innovation.
As the world watches the thrilling conclusion of this global competition, it is clear that Saudi Arabia is making its mark on the world stage, showcasing its ability to blend sports, technology, and entertainment in a way that captivates audiences from around the globe. The success of this event signals the growing importance of drone sports and innovation in the Kingdom, marking a new chapter in Saudi Arabia’s journey toward becoming a leader in the global technology landscape.