Abu Dhabi, UAE - On Saturday, April 27th, Abu Dhabi is set to make motorsport history as it hosts the groundbreaking inaugural ASPIRE Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) at the iconic Yas Marina Circuit. Welcoming 10,000 spectators, this event marks a significant milestone in the world of motorsport, billed as the largest league of its kind globally.

Eight teams from around the world will compete in this historic event: Code19 Racing from the USA, Constructor University from Germany and Switzerland, Fly Eagle representing Beijing Institute of Technology from China and Khalifa University from the UAE, HUMDA Lab from Hungary, KINETIZ from Singapore Nanyang Technological University and Kintsugi from the UAE, PoliMOVE from Politecnico di Milano in Italy, UNIMORE from the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia in Italy, and Technical University of Munich - TUM from Germany. These teams will vie for a substantial prize purse of US$ 2.25 million.

The participating teams, comprised of coders and engineers, will each have access to identical Dallara Super Formula SF23 cars, autonomized with racing stacks developed and integrated by the Technology Innovation Institute (TII). These cars, recognized as the fastest open-wheel race cars in the world after Formula One, can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h.

For the first time ever, the race format will feature four autonomous cars driving simultaneously on the racetrack, a feat never before attempted. The competition will consist of pre-qualifying races, culminating in a final Overtaking Challenge to determine the ultimate winner. Additionally, an AI vs Human car race will take place, with the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) pitting their autonomous car against former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat.

H.E. Faisal Al Bannai, Secretary General of the Advanced Technology Research Council - ASPIRE’s parent entity, highlighted the event's significance, stating, “This reimagined racing paradigm harnesses the pinnacle of coding skills, AI algorithms, and software development prowess — the very skill sets of the future."

ADNOC has been announced as the title sponsor, underlining the widespread enthusiasm for advancing autonomous racing technology. H.E. Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and Group MD & CEO of ADNOC, emphasized the company's commitment to technological advancement and integration of cutting-edge technology including AI.

ASPIRE CEO, Stephane Timpano, described A2RL as a platform for testing and optimizing autonomous vehicle technologies, enhancing safety and reliability on public roads. The event has attracted a diverse array of sponsors and technical partners, contributing their expertise to ensure its success.

An exclusive Fan Zone promises an elevated experience for families, motorsport fans, and tech enthusiasts, featuring tailored activities and immersive tech experiences. For those unable to attend in person, the excitement of Race Day will be accessible through various live streaming channels.

The inaugural A2RL event is part of Abu Dhabi Mobility Week, running from April 24 to May 1. Visitors and viewers alike can expect a thrilling showcase of innovation and competition at the forefront of autonomous racing technology.