Formula 1 Powerboat racing is sailing back to London for 2018

Formula 1 Powerboat racing (F1H20) is returning to London for the first time in over 30 years, with organisers U.I.M having announced a London Grand Prix as part of the 2018 World Championship season.

The race will see around 24 drivers of the world’s leading F1 Powerboat drivers race around the Royal Victoria Docks site in June next year.

The acting CEO of London & Partners, Andrew Cooke, commented: “Over the last few months, London has once again shown our enthusiasm for sport and openness, welcoming some of the greatest sports stars and fans from all over the world.

“I am delighted that the Formula 1 Powerboat championships will be returning to London and offers further proof that London is able to attract the best international sporting events.”

The two-day race weekend (June 16-17, 2018) will give spectators the chance to see the lightweight and powerful catamarans race at speeds going up to 140mph.

The race is to be part of London Tech Week 2018, which is Europe’s largest festival of technology and innovation.

Mr Li Haoijie, chairman of Tianrong Sports, a Chinese promotional company behind the U.I.M F1H20 World Championship, said: “London has a great sporting tradition and was a natural choice to showcase Formula 1 Powerboat racing.

“We are excited to bring the sport back to London at the iconic Royal Victoria Docks, and hope the event will bring new impetus for the revitalisation of East London and promote its development.”

The last race to be staged in London was in 1984. The race will be broadcast live around the world and shown on Sky Sports in the UK.

The London Grand Prix is also said to feature as part of the landmark 38th F1H20 World Championship season that will see eight races held in cities across the world including Abu Dhabi, Miami and Harbin in China.