Extreme H signs multi-year deal with FIA for World Cup event

The FIA and Extreme H have signed a multi-year agreement to deliver the world's first hydrogen-powered FIA World Cup event.

Already granted FIA World Cup status last December, the signing of the agreement ensures the long-term future for the competition, and ensures continued involvement from the world motorsport governing body.

“The FIA is committed to supporting competitions that set new benchmarks for sustainability, innovation, and equality,” said FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. “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.”

Extreme H is a successor to Extreme E, the all-electric off-road series which has run for the last four years. In that time, the series powered 80 percent of its event operations with a hydrogen fuel cell on site. Extreme H continues that, and introduces the new hydrogen-powered Pioneer 25 racing car, which will be utilized by all participants.

This year's inaugural FIA Extreme H World Cup will take place in Saudi Arabia, the exact dates and location will be announced on Wednesday September 17. Eight teams and 16 drivers – a male and female in each team – will compete, with the event being broadcast in 180 countries by 90 broadcasters.

“Signing this multi-year agreement with the FIA is a landmark moment for Extreme H and the future of hydrogen racing,” said Extreme H founder and CEO Alejandro Agag. “It reinforces our mission to push the boundaries of sustainable motor sport and provide a global showcase for clean mobility solutions and gender equality on the track.”