TABUK — The "Rosberg X-Racing" team started the new season of the "Extreme E" racing series for electric cars, picking up from last season by setting the fastest time in the first qualifying round of the opening stage of the championship hosted by NEOM over two days this weekend.

The Rosberg X-Racing team, which won the title in the first season of this exceptional championship with an environmental message, ended the first qualifying sessions with its two drivers Swedish Johan Kristofferson and Michaela Ahlin-Kotolinski registering the fastest time, total of 9,03,604 minutes.

A severe accident marred the trial round involving Veloce Racing team driver Christine Gambauli Zonca. The organizers brought out the red flag and stopped the race to remove the car from the track and ensure the safety of the Spanish driver, who exited naturally. She was immediately taken to hospital for further check-ups. — SPA