This collaboration between E1 and Qatar signals the nation’s growing commitment to hosting major international sporting events. The championship will feature the innovative RaceBird, an all-electric raceboat designed to push the boundaries of marine mobility. The races are expected to attract both local and global attention, aligning with Qatar’s strategic vision of positioning itself at the forefront of technological innovation and sustainability in sports.
Alejandro Agag, Co-Founder and Chairman of E1, expressed his excitement about Qatar’s inclusion in the racing calendar. He emphasized that the partnership would not only showcase thrilling competition on the water but also promote the advancement of electric technology, driving broader conversations around sustainable energy use in marine sports. For E1, this marks a critical expansion in the Middle East, with Qatar being one of the key locations alongside Jeddah for the 2025 season.
Qatar has been strategically building its reputation as a premier destination for global sporting events. From hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup to upcoming major tournaments such as the 2027 FIBA World Cup and the 2030 Asian Games, the country has continually demonstrated its capacity to stage events of international significance. Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, reiterated that this partnership would further enhance Qatar’s sports scene and support the country’s legacy as a hub for mega sporting events. He highlighted Qatar’s state-of-the-art sports infrastructure and organizational capabilities as critical factors in securing such a prestigious event.
The race itself will take place at The Pearl Island, a symbol of modern Qatari architectural excellence. The venue, which spans over four million square meters, boasts 32 kilometers of pristine coastline and has become a prominent residential and tourist destination. Hosting the championship at the luxurious Corinthia Yacht Club, located on The Pearl Island, will add to the spectacle of the event, drawing spectators from around the world to witness this unique blend of sport and sustainability.
Mr. Ibrahim Jassim Al-Othman, President and CEO of United Development Company, emphasized the significance of The Pearl Island as an ideal setting for the event. He noted that hosting the E1 Championship there would demonstrate Qatar’s leadership in both tourism and water sports, further contributing to the nation’s growing reputation for hosting cutting-edge sports competitions. The event will also spotlight Qatar’s commitment to sustainability, with the RaceBird’s electric propulsion technology aligning with the nation’s broader environmental goals.
E1’s arrival in Qatar is part of a broader trend of high-profile celebrity involvement in the championship. Team owners include globally recognized figures such as Rafael Nadal, Tom Brady, and Will Smith, adding further glamour and attention to the event. The championship, which has already gained a following in cities like Jeddah, Venice, and Monaco, is poised to elevate Qatar’s profile as a destination for world-class sports.
As the world looks towards the future of sustainable sports, Qatar’s partnership with E1 could prove transformative. Beyond the races themselves, the event will spark conversations about the electrification of marine mobility and its role in reducing carbon emissions. Alejandro Agag has made it clear that E1 is not just about competitive racing but about driving technological innovation that could have far-reaching implications for how marine vessels operate globally.