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Formula E to have a race in Saudi Arabia, authorities want local customs to be respected

Utkarsh Bhatla
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Formula E to have a race in Saudi Arabia

Formula E is set to make its debut in Saudi Arabia this December, with the Formula E authorities releasing the first glimpse of the Saudi Arabia circuit.

And while it is a monumental step in the history of Saudi Arabia and Formula E, the social media post that the Formula E account put up did end up in a little controversy(majorly due to a fan’s question).

A fan asked Formula E about how they were going to address the human rights issues that plague the kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The Formula E account did come up with a justification about how Saudi Arabia is moving towards of a vibrant and a more open society.

“The race in December will be the first time the country has opened its borders to tourists. Since June, women are now able to drive. Hosting Formula E is also another step for Saudi Arabia as the Kingdom moves towards a vibrant society.” Formula E replied.

The fan commended on the women being able to drive in Saudi part, but wanted Formula E to also talk about how the ‘LGBT issues’ would be handled, and if a gay driver/mechanic would  be allowed to openly express his sexuality.

Formula E had a not so convincing response, as when it said that they had to respect local customs and rules.

“Everyone is welcome to enjoy and travel to the event. We will all have to respect the local customs and rules but that doesn’t mean we can’t have an incredible event” Formula E replied replied.

What do you think about this?

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