The FIA has entered a multi-year agreement with Extreme H to establish the first hydrogen-powered World Cup in motorsport, positioning the series as a major new global off-road championship. The FIA Extreme H World Cup is scheduled to begin later this year in Saudi Arabia, with detailed locations and dates set to be announced on 17 September.
The series will run entirely on hydrogen fuel cell technology, powering not only the vehicles but also paddock operations, broadcast systems, and hospitality. Organizers describe Extreme H as a real-world demonstration of hydrogen’s potential, aiming to stimulate investment in refueling infrastructure and promote the adoption of clean energy across the automotive industry.
The hydrogen initiative builds on Extreme E’s transition program, which moved from fuel cells charging batteries in its first season to running 80% of event operations on hydrogen by its fourth season. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the agreement underscored the governing body’s commitment to sustainability and innovation: “The FIA is committed to supporting competitions that set new benchmarks for sustainability, innovation, and equality. This agreement for the FIA Extreme H World Cup demonstrates our belief in hydrogen’s potential as a key part of motorsport’s evolution.”
Extreme H founder and CEO Alejandro Agag described the deal as “a landmark moment for Extreme H and the future of hydrogen racing.” Following the format of Extreme E, each team will field one male and one female driver, making Extreme H the second international four-wheel motorsport competition to mandate mixed-gender line-ups.
The series already reaches 180 broadcast markets, aiming to engage both traditional motorsport fans and new audiences through its combination of off-road racing, technology focus, and gender-inclusive competition.