Jeddah, January 24, 2025 — The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is set to host the highly anticipated opening round of the E1 World Championship for electric powerboats for the second consecutive year at Jeddah's stunning waterfront. The event, taking place from January 24 to 25, 2025, is organized by the Saudi Water Sports and Diving Federation, under the supervision of the Ministry of Sport, in partnership with the International Powerboating Federation (UIM). This championship marks a significant milestone in the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to lead in the fields of sustainability, innovation, and sports development, particularly in the maritime sector.
The E1 World Championship for electric powerboats is more than just a thrilling competition—it is an integral part of Saudi Arabia's broader strategy to preserve the Red Sea's delicate ecosystem while promoting the shift toward a sustainable future. The event is in direct alignment with the Kingdom’s environmental initiatives, particularly the national strategy to protect and sustain the Red Sea, one of the most biologically diverse marine regions in the world. By hosting this event, Saudi Arabia affirms its commitment to the sustainable management of the Red Sea coastline and its ecosystem, a commitment that is a key pillar of the Saudi Vision 2030 agenda. This vision seeks to foster environmental sustainability, enhance collaboration for the preservation of marine life, and empower local communities while diversifying the Kingdom’s economy through green initiatives.
E1 Series CEO, Rodi Basso, spoke to the Saudi Press Agency, highlighting the championship’s role in furthering global sustainability efforts. Established in partnership with the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the E1 Championship aims to significantly contribute to the preservation of underwater biodiversity through the electrification of marine transportation. While Basso acknowledged that achieving the full sustainability goals within the next decade remains a challenge, he emphasized the championship’s role as a global platform where companies and innovators can come together to develop sustainable solutions for coastal areas and marine transport.
The E1 World Championship serves as a prime example of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to environmental sustainability, clean energy, and economic diversification, all key components of the Saudi Vision 2030. The championship also plays an important role in accelerating the development of maritime sports in the Kingdom. Through events like the E1 Series, Saudi Arabia is not only enhancing its reputation on the global sporting stage but also encouraging the growth of sustainable industries and fostering international collaboration for future innovation.
The significance of the event goes beyond sports; it is a vital catalyst for economic and social development in the Kingdom. By showcasing cutting-edge technology in electric marine sports, the event is poised to drive investment in the Red Sea’s maritime sports sector, attracting future events and international attention. The Red Sea is recognized as one of the world's most biologically rich regions, with its 1,800-kilometer coastline and diverse marine ecosystems. It is a critical trade route, linking the Indian Ocean with the Mediterranean Sea, and is home to the world’s fourth-largest coral reef system, making it an ideal location for such high-profile events.
This year’s competition will feature nine international teams, with renowned figures from various fields backing the teams, including celebrities such as Will Smith, Marc Anthony, Steve Aoki, Rafael Nadal, Sergio Pérez, Tom Brady, Virat Kohli, Didier Drogba, and Marcelo Claure. Together, these teams, which include a total of 18 skilled drivers, will compete in races across seven global cities throughout the year, showcasing not only their athletic prowess but also the evolving technologies in electric-powered marine sports.
Last season, the E1 Championship held races in iconic cities such as Venice, Monaco, Puerto Banús, Lake Como, and Jeddah, with Team Brady—owned by American football star Tom Brady—claiming the title after a thrilling competition against Westbrook Racing. As the event returns to Jeddah, it sets the stage for even more fierce competition and demonstrates the Kingdom’s ability to host world-class events that align with its ambitious vision for a sustainable and economically diversified future.
The Kingdom’s dedication to sustainability, paired with the growing excitement of the E1 Championship, further underscores Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in the global push for cleaner, greener technologies, while simultaneously advancing its reputation as a leader in the international sports arena. As the event unfolds on the Red Sea, it will undoubtedly serve as a powerful reminder of Saudi Arabia's commitment to innovation, environmental stewardship, and the future of sustainable sports.
