RIYADH: Saudi Entertainment Ventures, also known as SEVEN, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund, has announced a new partnership with Formula E to build the world’s first Formula E-branded indoor karting attraction across multiple destinations in the Kingdom.

The announcement was made from the site of the Diriyah E-Prix where the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship double-header of races is taking place this weekend.

Abdulla Nasser Al-Dawood, chairman of SEVEN, said: “Our strategic partnership with Formula E to bring never-seen-before Formula E-branded racing tracks within our entertainment destinations strategically complements our mission of creating a multiverse of entertainment offerings that cater to the different needs of our future guests ... We aspire to have the first Saudi car racing champion coming from our Formula E attraction.”

Alberto Longo, co-founder and chief championship officer, said he was “thrilled” to be working alongside SEVEN.

“Our objectives and goals align in bringing the excitement of Formula E to the Kingdom and taking fans closer to real racing action through the Formula E karting experience across the SEVEN destinations,” he said. “I am confident this incredible initiative will accelerate the potential of Saudi Arabia’s promising young drivers and create a future world champion.”

The license agreement was signed by Longo and Essam Othman Al-Jubair, chief operating officer at SEVEN.

The Formula E karting attractions are set to be built at four of SEVEN’s entertainment destinations located in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Abha. Each attraction will offer a selection of adult karts, junior karts, and dual karts, ensuring fun and safe experiences for the entire family. Boasting tracks exceeding 400 meters in length, the Formula E karting attractions provide extended straightaways for accelerated speed, delivering an unparalleled racing experience for guests.

SEVEN is a wholly owned company of PIF, mandated to invest in, develop and operate entertainment destinations and create a sustainable entertainment sector that caters to the needs of all in Saudi Arabia.