Jeddah: Extreme E is set to return for its fourth instalment, with only a month to go until the first two rounds launch the 2024 campaign in Saudi Arabia.
The Kingdom’s deserts have opened each of Extreme E’s three previous campaigns, and the action will commence in Jeddah when the championship arrives for the Desert X Prix on Feb. 17 and 18.
It will be the first time since the series launched that Extreme E has taken place on The Bride of the Red Sea, which has been home to the country’s Formula One races since 2021.
The focus of Extreme E’s legacy at the Desert X Prix will be coral restoration. The initiative will be led by Carlos Duarte, the head of Extreme E’s scientific committee and professor of marine science at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, as well as collaborating with Ocean Revive and Aeon Collective.
Alejandro Agag, founder and CEO of Extreme E, said: “We are excited to return to Saudi Arabia for our fourth season of Extreme E.
“The championship is undoubtedly one of the most competitive in world motorsport, and we are looking forward to another year full of fantastic battles out on track visiting some incredible locations, some of which have been hugely impacted by climate change.
“Saudi Arabia has been a great host for Extreme E since we launched and has also showcased some memorable on-track moments, and we look forward to more of the same in Jeddah.”
Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal, chairman of the Saudi Motorsport Co., said: “Our partnership with Extreme E has a rich history, extending far beyond the realms of sports and racing. We envision this collaboration to endure for the long term.
“This time around, the race takes place in a fresh and iconic setting, Jeddah, a location renowned globally for its significance, which has played a pivotal role in establishing Saudi Arabia’s reputation in the world of motorsports.
“We take immense pride in welcoming Extreme E back to Saudi Arabia for the fourth consecutive year, as it embarks on yet another thrilling round of the competition.
“Extreme E perfectly aligns with the core pillars of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, championing the nation’s commitment to lead in the advancement and advocacy of alternative energy, protecting our environment for generations to come, and forging a sustainable future,” the prince added.
Alongside Saudi Arabia and Sardinia, Extreme E’s 10-race championship will also see debuts in the US, with a further X Prix in Europe still to be confirmed.
Two-time champions Rosberg X Racing have been the most successful team in Saudi Arabia, taking two victories and two additional podiums from the four races held so far.
As Season 3 champions, German-Finnish entrepreneur and former racing driver Nico Rosberg’s outfit will once again be the team to beat. However, last year’s Desert X Prix showed that they can be beaten despite their formidable form, with Veloce Racing and ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team both taking their debut wins in the series.
