FIA Extreme H World Cup: Ben Sulayem Welcomes Saudi Arabia Debut
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), has welcomed the decision to stage the inaugural FIA Extreme H World Cup in Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya City this October. The hydrogen-powered event is set to mark a new era for sustainable racing.
The FIA, the global governing body for motorsport and mobility organisations, has signed a multi-year agreement with Extreme H to deliver the world’s first hydrogen-based motorsport championship. The event will run from 9–11 October 2025 in a purpose-built off-road venue, succeeding the FIA-sanctioned Extreme E series that operated between 2021 and 2024.
Pioneering Hydrogen Technology
Ben Sulayem described the World Cup as a breakthrough moment:
“As motorsport continues to grow worldwide, it is fantastic to see the inaugural Extreme H World Cup being hosted in Qiddiya City, Saudi Arabia. The hydrogen-powered event will use advanced technology to push the boundaries of sustainable racing, pioneering a new vision in a location which shares our commitment to a more sustainable and innovative future.”
The landmark agreement underlines FIA and Extreme H’s shared commitment to advancing hydrogen innovation and setting new standards in sustainability. With 90 broadcasters across 180 markets, the series aims to engage both traditional fans and a new generation through its mix of cutting-edge technology, clean energy, and equal-gender racing.
Driving Equality and Innovation
Every Extreme H team will feature a male and female driver, reinforcing a commitment to gender equality in top-level motorsport. The format makes it only the second global four-wheel series to implement such rules, following Extreme E.
From vehicles and paddock energy to broadcasting and hospitality, every aspect of the World Cup will run on hydrogen. This continues the progress made in Extreme E, which scaled hydrogen usage from powering charging stations in its first season to covering 80% of operations by its final race.
Building a Low-Carbon Future
Ben Sulayem added: “The FIA is committed to supporting competitions that set new benchmarks for sustainability, innovation, and equality. 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.”
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme H, echoed the sentiment: “Signing this multi-year agreement with the FIA is a landmark moment for Extreme H and the future of hydrogen racing. It reinforces our mission to push the boundaries of sustainable motorsport and provide a global showcase for clean mobility solutions and gender equality on the track.”
