Abu Dhabi-UAE: 7 December, 2023
The Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) has joined forces with the Drone Champions League (DCL), the world’s premier professional drone racing organization. This strategic partnership ushers in a new era for the thrilling sport of drone racing, merging human skill with innovative advancements in autonomous flight.
The announcement came on Day three of GITEX GLOBAL, the world’s largest and most influential technology event currently underway at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).
A2RL integrates artificial intelligence (AI), autonomy and extreme sports to push the boundaries of future mobility. It is being spotlighted as the largest autonomous racing league in the world, showcasing autonomous car races, drone races and dune buggy races. The autonomous Superformula car was unveiled on Day one of GITEX. Ten teams from all over the world will race during the inaugural event at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix circuit and compete for a prize fund of US$2.25 million.
Speaking on the partnership, Dr. Tom McCarthy, Executive Director at ASPIRE, said: “DCL is a like-minded partner with years of invaluable drone racing experience. Together we can add the new dimension of autonomous races to drone racing and ensure that technological progress is aligned with this exciting extreme sport”.
A2RL’s pioneering technology not only aligns with DCL’s vision for the future but also represents a seismic shift in how we perceive and engage with drone racing,” said Markus Stampfer, Board member of Drone Champions AG, which acts as the organizer of the Drone Champions League (DCL). “With this partnership, we’re not just racing drones; we’re racing the future.”
The Global Partnership between A2RL and DCL will see both entities working together to promote events on their respective platforms and organize showcases that will induct a global audience into the thrills of drone racing and the potential of autonomous drone technology to be adopted for use in key sectors like healthcare and logistics.
Future plans involve the organization of physical races where a piloted DCL race will take place at the same venue and course as an A2RL autonomous race in Abu Dhabi.
About Drone Champions League:
The DCL Drone Champions League is the global leader in professional drone racing. With a mission to combine cutting-edge technology and stunning locations, DCL has created a one-of-a-kind racing series that captures the imagination of millions worldwide. Featuring the world’s best drone racing teams, DCL events deliver high-speed excitement and jaw-dropping visuals in iconic destinations.
DCL on social media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dronechampionsleague/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dronechampionsleague/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DroneChampionsLeague
For media enquiries:
Please contact: Drone Champions AG
About ASPIRE:
ASPIRE drives the creation of future transformative technologies as the business development and technology program management pillar of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC). ATRC is responsible for defining Abu Dhabi’s research and development strategy, consolidating funds for efficient investment, and driving policy and regulation. ASPIRE works in consultation with cross-sector industry stakeholders, universities, and research institutes to frame problem statements. It also launches grand challenges and international competitions to solve some of the world’s most pressing issues. ASPIRE brings together exceptional people, ideas, resources, and technologies to solve complex challenges.
For more information, visit https://www.aspireuae.ae/
Connect with us on social media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atrcuae
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ATRCuae
For media enquiries, please contact: Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) comms@atrc.ae