The 2026 UIM E1 World Championship got underway in Jeddah with a race that delivered exactly what the series has become known for: close racing, fine margins and a result decided by calm execution under pressure. On the Red Sea, Aoki Racing Team claimed the season’s first victory after holding off defending champions Team Brady in a tense final.
Pilots Sara Misir and Dani Clos worked seamlessly across the finals, using smart positioning and clean racing to put Aoki at the top of the standings after the opening round. It is the second time the team has won in Jeddah, once again turning the Saudi Arabian opener into an early advantage in the championship fight.
The key moment came at the start of the final. Misir lined up alongside Team Rafa’s Cris Lazarraga heading into the first corner, the two boats running side-by-side on their foils. There was slight contact as both drivers pushed for position, but Misir held her line and emerged ahead, setting the tone for the laps that followed.
That opportunity had been created by Clos in Final 1. His strong run secured the inside lane for Aoki Racing Team, giving Misir track position when it mattered most. From there, she controlled the race, managing the gap and responding to pressure from behind to take the chequered flag after six demanding laps.
Team Brady stayed in close contention throughout and finished second, while the battle for third was decided after the race. Sierra Racing Club, making their debut in the championship, received a penalty for an overtaking infringement and dropped down the order. The decision promoted Team AlUla, championed by LeBron James, onto the podium in third place.
Misir’s drive was recognised with the PIF Pilot of the Day award. Competing in her first event with Aoki Racing Team, she showed composure, consistency and strong race awareness in a tightly fought final.
“It feels really good,” Misir said afterwards. “Dani did a great job earlier and put us in a strong position. From there, I just focused on keeping it clean and pushing all the way to the end.”
Clos was equally positive about the team’s start to the season. “This is a special place to win,” he said. “The team, the atmosphere, the racing — everything came together. It’s a great way to begin the year.”
Once again, Jeddah provided a striking backdrop for the championship opener, with thousands of spectators lining the waterfront. The event reinforced Saudi Arabia’s growing role in the development of electric racing and sustainable marine sport.
The championship now moves to Europe, with the next round taking place on Lake Como, Italy, from 24–25 April, where tighter circuits and different conditions will offer a fresh challenge for the teams.