The inaugural occurrence of the race took place during the 2018-19 season, marking it as the maiden Formula E event in the Middle East.
On January 26 and 27, the historic desert surroundings of Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will host two night races for the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. The 2.495km Diriyah Circuit will feature 21 twists and turns. Spectators can expect a unique blend of tradition and innovation as cutting-edge all-electric racing cars, including the DS Penske DS E-Tense FE23 driven by former Formula E World Champion Stoffel Vandoorne, compete for victory against the backdrop of this extraordinary destination. Stoffel Vandoorne will continue his role as Global Ambassador for Saudia until 2024.
During the race weekend, fans will have access to an expansive E-Village, wherein Saudia will have a dedicated, newly developed Discover-E Zone. The E-Zone features a variety of interactive experiences designed to educate and excite fans in new and innovative ways including the revamped ‘Evolution in Your Hands’ virtual quiz and the enhanced ‘ReGen3rate’ game that allows fans to experience the exhilaration of racing on the Diriyah racetrack whilst controlling the battery levels in their car as they steer to pole position.
For the first time ever, fans unable to attend the Diriyah E-Prix will be able to visit Saudia’s Discover-E Zone in an immersive 3D world. Extending the excitement beyond the circuit through the reenergized Take Your Seat digital hub, fans will be able to explore all the on-ground activations through their mobile phone, ensuring those who can’t make the trip can still engage with the same activations offered at the race.
Khaled Tash, Saudia Group Chief Marketing Officer, Saudia said:
“As the national flag carrier, and the airline partner of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, it is our honor to bring the world once again to Diriyah.”
“This marks the sixth year of our partnership and every year the experience gets even better for racegoers. We are proud to be contributing to Saudi Arabia’s growing reputation as a host of word-class sporting competitions.
“As an airline, we share Formula E’s commitment to innovation, passion for opening up exciting destinations and cultures, sharing rich experiences, and creating memories that last a lifetime. Alongside our Global Ambassador, Stoffel Vandoorne, we look forward to welcoming race fans from around the world. We invite them to visit us at the Saudia booth to be immersed in a truly Saudi experience.”
Stoffel Vandoorne, Saudia Global Ambassador added: “I am thrilled to extend my ambassadorial role with Saudia for another year. Formula E has been an incredible journey, and Saudia has been a remarkable partner. The Diriyah E-Prix holds a special place in my heart as one of my favorite races on the Formula E calendar, and I can’t wait for what promises to be an amazing weekend. Together with Saudia, we’re set for another electrifying season and I’m looking forward to helping to grow the sport with them in 2024.”
Saudia has an extensive young fleet of 142 aircraft and flies to more than 100 destinations, connecting three continents. It is worth noting that Saudia was ranked the Most Trusted Organization in Saudi Arabia among 80 brands in the Kingdom according to the Ipsos Saudi Arabia Reputation Monitor 2023 Survey.
