Key Points,
- City will host the first two rounds on December 18 and 19
- New GEN4 electric race car will make its global competitive debut
- Saudi Arabia is expanding its role in international motorsport
JEDDAH: Jeddah will host the opening two rounds of the 2026–2027 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship on December 18 and 19, marking the first time the Saudi Arabian city stages the season opener.
Tickets for the Jeddah E-Prix are now on sale for the races at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The event will also mark the global debut of the GEN4 electric race car, which Formula E describes as the most powerful car in the championship’s history. The car can produce up to 600 kilowatts of power and accelerate from zero to 100 kilometres per hour in 1.8 seconds.
The new season will also introduce a race format called “E-Prix Unleashed” alongside traditional Formula E races.
The 3.001-kilometre Jeddah Corniche Circuit, with 19 turns, will stage both opening rounds at night under floodlights. The event will include a fan zone. The zone will feature interactive activities and family programmes, alongside post-race performances.
From Diriyah to Jeddah
Saudi Arabia has expanded its international motorsport programme in recent years, hosting Formula One, Formula E, the Dakar Rally and other major competitions. Arab News reported that Formula E moved its Saudi event from Diriyah to Jeddah in 2025 after six seasons in Diriyah.
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The first E-Prix double-header in 2025 attracted more than 65 million viewers worldwide, according to Arab News, highlighting the international reach. The 2025 races also established the Kingdom’s port city as a regular venue for Formula E’s night racing programme.
The Kingdom’s motorsport calendar is continuing to expand. The Saudi Arabian Formula One Grand Prix is scheduled to return to the Jeddah Corniche Circuit from March 19 to 21, 2027, according to Arab News, while Saudi Arabia is also hosting other international and domestic racing events.
The GEN4 car represents another technological development for Formula E.
After its unveiling, Arab News reported that the car has up to 600 kilowatts of power and uses an active all-wheel-drive system. It was also designed with recyclable and recycled materials, reflecting Formula E’s focus on electric vehicle technology and sustainability.
Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation, Mansour Almokbel, said hosting the opening rounds reflected the Kingdom’s growing role in shaping the future of motorsport and hosting world championships.
