Australian Rally Champion Molly Taylor has claimed the inaugural FIA Extreme H World Cup alongside Swedish teammate Kevin Hansen, making motorsport history in Qiddiya City, Saudi Arabia.
The Extreme H World Cup, the first ever FIA-sanctioned hydrogen-powered event, took place over three days of competition featuring 16 of the world’s finest off road racers, representing eight teams.
Taylor, driving for Jameel Motorsport in a Pioneer 25 machine equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell, traversed parts of the Saudi Arabian desert across three different racing disciplines.
Thursday’s Time Trials preceded Friday’s Head-to-Head battles, before the Multi-Car heat format built towards Saturday’s FIA Extreme H World Cup Final.
Taylor and Hansen finished second on the opening day of Time Trials before the dynamic duo cemented their charge by winning five Head-to-Head races on Friday.
A further triumph followed in the opening Multi-Car Heat, which ultimately rewarded Jameel Motorsport with pole position for the Final – a first-ever eight car extreme race.
Hansen opened the final strong to pull clear of the pack, before handing over the car to Taylor, who did not look back as the Saudi Arabian squad took the chequered flag more than seven seconds clear of the chasing group.
Taylor remarked winning the very first FIA Extreme H World Cup felt incredible.
“There were so many unknowns competing across three different disciplines, so it has been an intense week,” Taylor said.
“Our team did an amazing job, Kevin always does an amazing job. This one feels like the sweetest trophy I’ve ever had.
“We are so grateful to Jameel Motorsport for backing us, we have been feeling all the support of everyone here in Saudi Arabia.
“To be part of the first ever hydrogen-powered racing championship and to stand on the top step is incredibly special. This series represents the future of motorsport; competitive, innovative, and purpose-driven; and I’m proud to have played a role in its first chapter.”
FIA Road Sport Director Emilia Abel reflected on a successful first-ever FIA-sanctioned hydrogen-powered event.
“It’s been a great week here in Saudi Arabia – many congratulations to Molly and to Kevin and everyone at Jameel Motorsport,” Abel noted.
“They should be very proud to be the first ever FIA Extreme H World Cup winners. The SAMF, Extreme H promoter and all of the teams and drivers have put on a fantastic show.”
The win for Taylor adds to the Australian’s ever-glowing resumé in innovative motorsport events, following on from her inaugural Extreme E Championship win in 2021.
