In a landmark move for motorsport broadcasting in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region, Formula E has announced the renewal of its media partnership exclusively with the Saudi Sports Company (SSC) for the next three seasons. 

 

This extended agreement includes more comprehensive year-round coverage on SSC, Shahid and MBC Action, including live coverage of the Diriyah E-Prix.

 

SSC 2, the dedicated motorsport channel, will complement its offering of extensive live broadcasting of all races and qualifying sessions with new highlights packages, demonstrating its unwavering dedication to motorsport enthusiasts in the region. 

 

In addition, Shahid, the world’s leading Arabic streaming language, by MBC Group will offer all-encompassing coverage of every racing session, along with other exclusive Formula E programs, ensuring fans have comprehensive access to their favourite electric motorsport action.

 

MBC Action, recognized as the premier action channel in the region, will enhance this coverage by broadcasting live the qualifying and race sessions of both Diriyah races. Additionally, it will provide highlights coverage for all races, ensuring fans do not miss any of the pivotal moments throughout the season.

 

The renewal of the partnership is both a continuation of the existing partnership as well as a testament of increased commitment to the motorsport from SSC and MBC Action. 

 

The agreement encompasses the exclusive broadcast rights in both English and Arabic across: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, UAE and Yemen.

 

Aarti Dabas, Chief Media Officer, Formula E said: "We are absolutely delighted to renew our partnership with the Saudi Sports Company providing expanded coverage and marking a significant milestone for the Formula E Championship in the Mena region."

 

"This collaboration is a testament to our shared commitment to bringing exhilarating motorsport action to our fans," she stated. 

 

“As we gear up for the Diriyah E-Prix, we look forward to delivering unparalleled coverage and bringing the thrilling world of electric racing closer to our ever-growing fanbase across this important region," she added

 

SSC pointed out that its commitment to Formula E reflected the growing interest in electric motorsport in the Mena region and their dedication to bringing premium sports content to their audience. 

 

This partnership will ensure that fans have unparalleled access to the excitement and innovation that Formula E embodies, it stated.

 

Coinciding with this announcement is this weekend’s 2024 Diriyah E-Prix set against the backdrop of the city’s historic street circuit under night skies. All eyes will be on Pascal Wehrlein (TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team) who seeks to repeat his double victory from the previous season. 

 

The challenging and intricate circuit in Diriyah will provide a dynamic playground for top drivers, combining advanced technology, intense racing, and Formula E's dedication to sustainability, said SSC in its statement. 

 

This event in Saudi Arabia is expected to showcase the evolving landscape of electric motorsport, promising competitive racing and strategic prowess, it added.-TradeArabia News Service