The eyes of motorsport fans around the world will be on Saudi Arabia tomorrow, Friday, as the fourth and fifth rounds of the 2026 ABB Formula E World Championship kick off. This major global event will be held at the famous Jeddah Corniche Circuit, in the twelfth edition of the championship, under the name (Jeddah E-Prix 2026).
This marks the eighth consecutive time the Kingdom has hosted rounds of this prestigious championship, reflecting growing international confidence in Saudi Arabia's organizational capabilities. The race is organized by the Saudi Arabian Motor Federation and held under the direct supervision of the Ministry of Sport, with the circuit set to witness fierce competition over two consecutive days.
The Kingdom's position on the world sports map
The selection of Saudi Arabia to host major sporting events is no longer a mere coincidence, but has become a cornerstone of the international sporting landscape. Hosting the Formula E race is part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at strengthening the Kingdom's position as a leading global destination, in line with the objectives of Vision 2030, which places great importance on the sports sector.
In this context, His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, affirmed that the Kingdom's continued hosting of this championship for the eighth time demonstrates the generous and unwavering support of the wise leadership for the sports sector. His Highness pointed out that this support has directly contributed to transforming Saudi Arabia into a destination for athletes and fans from around the world.
Sustainability and clean energy: the race's message
The importance of the ABB Formula E race extends beyond the competitive aspect, carrying significant environmental and social messages. His Highness the Minister of Sport explained that holding the race in Jeddah supports the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to promote clean energy and environmental sustainability. The event also opens up broad opportunities to empower Saudi nationals and leverage their expertise in organizing major international events, all within an atmosphere that blends speed, excitement, and cutting-edge technology, thus contributing to increased sports tourism.
Track details and top competitors
The race features a selection of elite international drivers, with 20 competitors representing 10 global teams vying for a specially modified 3.01-kilometer track on the Jeddah Corniche. This circuit demands exceptional skill and precision from the drivers to navigate its fast turns.
The entry list boasts a number of prominent names, including New Zealander Nick Cassidy and Frenchman Jean-Éric Vergne of Citroën, and Brazilian Felipe Drogovich and Briton Jake Dennis of Andretti. Swede Joel Eriksson and Swiss Sébastien Buemi of Envision Racing are also competing. For DS Penske, German Maximilian Günther and Briton Taylor Barnard stand out.
The competition heats up with Yamaha's Zane Maloney and Lucas di Grassi, while Cobra Kiro is represented by Dan Ticktum and Bebe Marti. Nissan relies on Oliver Rowland and Norman Nato, while Edouard Mortara and Nyck de Vries represent Mahindra Racing. Jaguar TCS Racing boasts António Félix da Costa and Mitch Evans, while Pascal Wehrlein and Nico Müller carry the hopes of Porsche.
Championship standings before the Jeddah round
The drivers enter the Jeddah round after intense competition in the first three rounds held in São Paulo, Mexico City, and Miami. New Zealander Nick Cassidy of Citroën Racing currently leads the overall standings, narrowly ahead of his rivals Pascal Wehrlein of Porsche and Jake Dennis of Andretti, promising a thrilling and closely contested race with potential changes in the leading positions.
