The eyes of marine sports enthusiasts around the world are turning to Jeddah, which is preparing to host the opening round of the third season of the UIM E1 Series powerboat world championship. This highly anticipated global event will take place on January 23 and 24, organized by the Saudi Arabian Maritime Sports and Diving Federation, in cooperation with the Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM), and with strategic partnership from the Public Investment Fund.
A global launch from the heart of the Red Sea
Jeddah's hosting of this opening round for the third consecutive year is a strong affirmation of Saudi Arabia's position as a leading destination for major sporting events. This edition is particularly significant as it marks the start of the 2026 season, which includes eight international rounds, beginning in the Red Sea city and passing through iconic cities such as Lake Como in Italy, Monaco, and culminating in the United States and the Bahamas. This route reflects international confidence in Jeddah's advanced infrastructure and its capacity to accommodate the latest technologies in marine racing.
RaceBird technology and the future of sustainability
The E1 Series represents a quantum leap in the world of racing, relying entirely on the cutting-edge electric boats of RaceBird. These boats are not merely racing vessels, but engineering marvels equipped with hydrofoil technology that lifts the boat above the water's surface to reduce drag, enabling exceptional speeds with zero carbon emissions and minimal noise – perfectly aligned with global trends in marine environmental protection.
Sports and entertainment stars at the heart of the action
What distinguishes this tournament is the significant media and public attention it receives from the team owners, a group of global sports and entertainment legends. The list includes such luminaries as tennis legend Rafael Nadal, American football star Tom Brady, actor Will Smith, and football icon Didier Drogba. The presence of these names not only intensifies the competition but also highlights the global importance of the clean energy transition in sports.
Sports in service of Vision 2030
This event cannot be separated from the broader context of Saudi Vision 2030, which places sustainability and economic diversification at the heart of its objectives. Hosting races powered by clean energy reinforces the Kingdom's commitment to environmental preservation and supports the sports tourism sector, a key pillar of the new economic landscape. Furthermore, the partnership with the Public Investment Fund underscores the Kingdom's dedication to investing in the future of modern sports and technological innovation, positioning Jeddah's beaches as a global platform for showcasing the Kingdom's modern and progressive image.
