Extreme H, the world’s first hydrogen-powered motorsport competition, will be known as the FIA Extreme H World Cup with the signing of a non-binding agreement between its organizers and the world motorsport governing body.
The series, which is set to debut next year, will replace the battery-electric Extreme E series which ran for the last four years.
“It is a very proud moment for us all as Extreme H becomes the FIA Extreme H World Cup,” said Extreme H founder and CEO Alejandro Agag. “This recognition from motorsport’s governing body is an important stamp of approval and a major step forward in showcasing hydrogen’s potential while aligning with the highest global standards in motorsport.”
Since its debut in 2021, Extreme E focused on highlighting environmental issues, as well as promoting gender equality and inclusion with an even split of male and female participants in each team. They are themes that are set to continue in Extreme H — the male/female driver line-ups will remain, and the series’ switch to hydrogen power will serve as a testbed for clean energy solutions, with the FIA saying it “is confident that Extreme H will inspire further investment in hydrogen infrastructure, critical for a sustainable, low-carbon future.”
“The FIA is committed to supporting initiatives that set new standards for sustainability and equality,” said FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. “We look forward to the positive impact the FIA Extreme H World Cup will have across motorsport, the automotive industry, and beyond, accelerating the transition to clean energy and fostering an inclusive racing culture.
“The FIA is at the forefront of advancing sustainable technologies. Motorsport must evolve and adapt to remain sustainable, and the adoption of hydrogen fuels is a key part of our future.”
Extreme H will utilize the Pioneer 25, a purpose-built vehicle from French manufacturer Spark. The car has been in development for the last two years, building on lessons learned from the Extreme E Odyssey 21, and has been subject to an intensive test program throughout 2024 already. It entered production recently, with 10 expected to be ready to take part in the FIA Extreme H World Cup next year.