Car racing has been criticized for long, due to its adverse effects on the environment and also because of the wastage of precious non-renewable resource like petrol for entertainment. So, it wasn’t long before one of the world’s leading car racing franchises, Formula 1, decided to introduce an environment-friendly alternative, Formula E. Lately, Formula E signed a deal with Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, which is part of Formula E’s legacy of breaking barriers and doing surprising things.
It is Formula E which first brought the racing of electric cars and secondly the inclusion of female racers to the roster. The first ever Formula E race had Katherine Legge and Michela Cerruti driving alongside their male counterparts, a sight seldom seen in other championships worldwide.
The 10-year partnership deal signed with Riyadh will see the start of FE’s fifth season in Riyadh. The Saudi government has responded positively by issuing visas, inviting others to visit and watch the race in their capital. It seems Riyadh is anxious to imitate the success of hosting world tournaments like its neighbors UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait.
Some fans responded with a shock against the decision wondering if female drivers will be allowed to drive. Fortunately, the Saudi government allowed women to drive last year. The country is progressing toward a bright future and FE hopes to help.