Saudi Minister Crowns Oliver Rowland as Jeddah E-Prix Round 4 Champion

Jeddah, February 16, 2025 – Saudi Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SOPC) Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal crowned British driver Oliver Rowland of the Nissan Team as the winner of the fourth round of the Jeddah Formula E-Prix. The event, hosted at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit for the seventh consecutive time, drew intense competition and a large spectator turnout, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a premier destination for international motorsport.

Context and Background

The Jeddha E-Prix is part of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, a fully electric racing series that promotes sustainable mobility. Saudi Arabia has hosted the event annually since 2018, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals of economic diversification, tourism development, and environmental stewardship. The race is organized by the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation (SAMF) under the supervision of the Ministry of Sport.

Key Details

Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal presented the winner’s trophy to Oliver Rowland, who drove for the Nissan Team. Chairman of the Board of Directors of SAMF and Saudi Motorsport Company (SMC) Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al Abdullah bin Faisal awarded the second-place trophy to British driver Taylor Barnard of the NEOM McLaren Team. The day’s schedule included free practice at 1:00 p.m., qualifying at 3:20 p.m., knockout duels at 4:05 p.m., and the main race at 8:05 p.m., captivating an engaged audience.

Implications and Impact

The continued hosting of the E-Prix reinforces Saudi Arabia’s commitment to international sports diplomacy and its reputation as a hub for cutting-edge motorsport. The event attracts global attention, promotes tourism, and showcases the Kingdom’s modern infrastructure, such as the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. It also highlights Saudi Arabia’s investment in electric vehicle technology and sustainable racing, resonating with global environmental trends.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This event directly supports Vision 2030 by diversifying the economy beyond oil, boosting tourism and entertainment, and positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in sustainable sports. The Kingdom’s long-term vision includes hosting major global events, fostering youth engagement, and advancing environmental goals—all exemplified by the Jeddah E-Prix. As Saudi Arabia continues to welcome the world, such events pave the way for a vibrant, modern society.

20 Questions

Q1. Who won the Jeddah E-Prix Round 4?

A1. British driver Oliver Rowland of the Nissan Team won the fourth round of the Jeddah E-Prix, held at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.

Q2. Who crowned Oliver Rowland as champion?

A2. Saudi Minister of Sport and SOPC President Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal crowned Rowland as the winner.

Q3. How many times has Saudi Arabia hosted the Jeddah E-Prix?

A3. Saudi Arabia hosted the Jeddah E-Prix for the seventh consecutive time in 2025, showcasing its long-term commitment to Formula E.

Q4. Where did the race take place?

A4. The race took place at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, a state-of-the-art venue on the Red Sea coast.

Q5. Who organized the event?

A5. The event was organized by the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation (SAMF) under the supervision of the Ministry of Sport.

Q6. Who finished second in the race?

A6. British driver Taylor Barnard of the NEOM McLaren Team finished second, receiving the trophy from Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al Abdullah bin Faisal.

Q7. What type of racing is the Formula E?

A7. Formula E is a fully electric racing championship that promotes sustainable mobility and innovative technology.

Q8. When did the main race start?

A8. The main race started at 8:05 p.m. local time, following practice and qualifying sessions.

Q9. What was the spectator turnout like?

A9. The event witnessed a large spectator turnout, reflecting strong public interest in motorsport in Saudi Arabia.

Q10. How does the E-Prix align with Vision 2030?

A10. The E-Prix supports Vision 2030 by diversifying the economy, boosting tourism, and promoting sustainable technologies.

Q11. What organization oversees the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee?

A11. The Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee is overseen by the Ministry of Sport, with Prince Abdulaziz as its president.

Q12. Who is Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al Abdullah bin Faisal?

A12. He is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of SAMF and the Saudi Motorsport Company, involved in awarding trophies at the event.

Q13. What team does Oliver Rowland drive for?

A13. Oliver Rowland drives for the Nissan Team in the Formula E championship.

Q14. What team does Taylor Barnard drive for?

A14. Taylor Barnard drives for the NEOM McLaren Team, which is backed by NEOM, a Saudi giga-project.

Q15. What time did qualifying start?

A15. Qualifying for the Jeddah E-Prix started at 3:20 p.m. local time.

Q16. What is the Jeddah Corniche Circuit known for?

A16. It is a scenic street circuit along the Red Sea, known for its high-speed layout and modern facilities.

Q17. How does the E-Prix benefit Saudi tourism?

A17. The event attracts international visitors, media attention, and showcases Saudi Arabia’s hospitality and infrastructure, boosting tourism.

Q18. What is the role of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation?

A18. SAMF organizes motorsport events in Saudi Arabia, including the E-Prix, under the Ministry of Sport’s supervision.

Q19. What is the significance of hosting the event for seven years?

A19. It demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s consistent commitment to major international sports events and its growing reputation as a reliable host.

Q20. What does the winner’s trophy symbolize?

A20. The trophy symbolizes excellence in motorsport and Saudi Arabia’s recognition of athletic achievement, in line with Vision 2030’s sports development goals.

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