The Formula E World Championship is set to roar back into Jeddah next week, bringing fans a weekend of high-octane racing, immersive entertainment, and global motorsport excitement. With last year’s record-breaking audiences, the championship promises to continue its trajectory as one of the fastest-growing motorsport events in the world.
A Global Phenomenon with Record Audiences
Chief Championship Officer Alberto Longo spoke to Al Arabiya English presenter Tom Burges Watson about what fans can expect. According to Longo, last year’s Formula E season attracted an astonishing 650 million TV viewers worldwide and over 420 million fans globally. Saudi Arabia alone accounted for 4.6 million fans, with a remarkable 47% female audience, a rare statistic in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
“Motorsport has historically been male-focused, but Formula E is changing that,” Longo told The Riyal Deal. “We are very well balanced in terms of gender, which is something we are extremely proud of.”
Formula E vs. Formula 1: A Growing Championship
When asked whether Formula E could one day rival Formula 1, Longo remained optimistic but respectful of F1’s legacy:
“I’m a big fan of Formula 1 and I don’t want it to shrink. But Formula E is growing rapidly. In just 11 years, it’s already the second most important championship globally. As electric vehicle technology evolves faster than combustion engines, we are aligned with the industry and manufacturers. Eventually, I believe we will be at least as big as Formula 1.”
The championship’s rapid growth reflects the global shift toward electric mobility, with Formula E at the forefront of showcasing EV innovation.
What to Expect in Jeddah Next Weekend
Fans visiting Jeddah Street Circuit can look forward to two adrenaline-fueled races, one on Friday and another on Saturday. Last year alone, the championship saw over 200 overtakes, ensuring non-stop action on the track.
Beyond racing, the event offers a full entertainment experience, including concerts, interactive fan zones, and global sponsor activations designed to engage attendees of all ages.
“We hosted more than 20,000 people last year, and this year we expect even more,” Longo added. “The excitement is both on and off the track.”
Engaging a Younger Audience
Formula E has deliberately targeted a younger fan base, reducing the average age of attendees to 27—a significant contrast to traditional motorsports, where fans often average between 50–60 years old.
“We wanted to attract the next generation of motorsport enthusiasts,” said Longo. “It’s all about keeping the sport exciting and relevant for younger fans.”
Economic Boost for Host Cities
Formula E doesn’t just thrill fans—it also brings substantial economic benefits to host cities. Impact studies reveal that each race weekend generates an average of $85 million, with Jeddah expected to contribute approximately $80 million to the local economy.
“Our presence has a meaningful impact, from tourism to hospitality,” Longo explained.
Why Saudi Arabia is a Key Stop
Saudi Arabia has become a cornerstone of the Formula E calendar. The Kingdom hosted the first international event eight years ago, welcoming teams, drivers, and manufacturers alike.
“The Kingdom makes us feel at home,” said Longo. “With the support of Prince Abdullah City, the Minister of Sports, Formula E is here to stay for many years.”
The partnership highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to innovative international sporting events, aligning with its broader strategy to host world-class competitions.
Stay Tuned for the Jeddah E-Prix
With record-breaking audiences, gender-balanced fans, and an average fan age of 27, Formula E continues to redefine the motorsport experience. Fans in Jeddah can expect speed, entertainment, and excitement unlike any other racing event in the world.
For tickets and more information, visit the official Formula E website.
