- Extreme E will return for one-off event a week prior to mark hydrogen transition
- FIA has strong belief in “hydrogen’s potential as a key part of motorsport’s evolution”
The International Automobile Federation (FIA) and Extreme H have agreed a multi-year deal to stage the first hydrogen-powered World Cup.
Qiddiya City in Saudi Arabia will play host to the first event from 9th to 11th October, just under a week after Extreme E returns for a one-off event to mark the transition from electric to hydrogen power.
“The FIA is committed to supporting competitions that set new benchmarks for sustainability, innovation, and equality,” said FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
“This agreement for the FIA Extreme H World Cup demonstrates our belief in hydrogen’s potential as a key part of motorsport’s evolution. Together, we are laying the groundwork for a more sustainable future for our sport and the wider industry.”
It follows the announcement last December that the two parties had established a framework for what the championship would look like. Initially, Extreme H was intended to become an official FIA world championship from 2026, but it is unclear if this remains the plan.
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In its old guise as Extreme E, the championship initially used hydrogen fuel cells to facilitate vehicle charging before eventually powering 80 per cent of its event operations with the technology in its most recent season.
The reimagined series will now use hydrogen in every element, from the cars on track to the energy infrastructure that runs the paddock, broadcast and hospitality.
Each team in Extreme H will also continue the gender parity mission started by Extreme E and field a male and female driver.
“Qiddiya City is the ideal launchpad for the FIA Extreme H World Cup, a new frontier for motorsport that embodies purpose, innovation and entertainment,” said Alejandro Agag, founder and chairman of Extreme H.
“More than just a race venue, it’s a statement of intent. A visually stunning, technologically ambitious location that sets the tone for a new era of motorsport. We are proud to showcase the power of hydrogen and sustainable technology.”
Further details on the sporting format, teams, drivers and partners will be confirmed in the coming weeks.
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