x cat championships

Established in 1922, the Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM) stands as the global governing body for all Powerboating activities.

It’s fully recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and is a member of the Association of IOC Recognized International Sports Federations (ARISF) and the Global Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF). The UIM boasts 60 affiliated National Federations.

As the globally recognized leader in power boating, the UIM is dedicated to safeguarding and advancing the future of the sport on behalf of its national federations and competitors. Our responsibility includes creating a safe, accessible, unified, and flourishing sport for all enthusiasts.

THE LEADING EVENT IN THE WORLD OF POWERBOATING

Since 2017, the UIM has been the driving force behind the XCAT Class, and starting from 2018, it will undergo a rebranding to emerge as the UIM XCAT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP. This transformation will introduce an exciting new sports, media, and marketing format, establishing it as the ultimate pinnacle of powerboat racing.

XCAT IS THE TOP CATEGORY IN THE WORLD OF POWERBOATING

Today, XCAT stands out as one of the most exhilarating disciplines in extreme water sports, attracting a fleet of over 12 high-performance boats to each round of the World Championship.

Experience the ever-evolving and exhilarating XCAT Event, where constant development and innovation create a truly unique and thrilling experience.

GREEN

The new generation of ROS Four Stroke engines developed by Mercury Racing represents the pinnacle of state-of-the-art technology. These engines strike a perfect balance between high performance and low environmental impact, thanks to their innovative design and engineering;

• 80% less emissions
• Experience a remarkable decrease in aromatic hydrocarbons, poly-aromatic hydrocarbons, and olefins that pose a threat to underwater marine life.

KEY FEATURES

XCAT truly sets itself apart from other powerboat racing events through its unwavering commitment to revolutionize and elevate the sport. By providing a distinctive, all-encompassing experience for host cities, spectators, fans, teams, and drivers, XCAT redefines the standard for powerboat racing events.

The XCAT racing experience is an exhilarating blend of thrill and safety, offering an exciting and educational adventure that engages the public in a refreshing new way. The UIM XCAT World Championship stands out as an electrifying sport, delivering the most spectacular powerboat racing entertainment imaginable.

AFFLUENCE

The sport involving some of the Middle Eastern countries is widely recognized for its association with their luxurious lifestyle and significant influence in both Asia and Europe and now, in Málaga, Spain.

GLAMOUR AND INTERNATIONAL FLAVOUR

“Add an extra layer of excitement to the world of sports with unique venues and special activities that go beyond the traditional sporting events. Experience the thrill of the sport in extraordinary settings, curated by Globe Regal Yachting.”

SPECTACULAR AND CAPTIVATING

The impressive speeds achieved by the X-AT boats, along with the stunning images and videos  produce an experience is truly exhilarating.

20 – 80 Y E A R S  O F  A G E

P A S S I O N A T E  A B O U T  M O T O R S P O R T S

L I F E S T Y L E  A N D  L U X U R Y  O R I E N T E D

A T T R A C T E D  B Y  B R E A T H T A K I N G  X C A T  P OW E R B O A T  R A C I N G

H I G H  D I S P O S A B L E  I N C O M E

The Race weekend format has been carefully tailored to enhance the spectator experience by bringing the race closer to the shoreline. XCAT practice sessions, pole position, and the two thrilling races are complemented by a variety of side events, adding even more excitement and entertainment to the sports program.

DAY 1

• OPENING CEREMONY
• PRESS CONFERENCE
• DRIVERS BRIEFING
• OFFICIAL PRACTICE
• POLE POSITION
• WELCOME RECEPTION

DAY 2

• OFFICIAL PRACTICE
• XTREME SIDE EVENTS SHOWS
• RACE 1
• PODIUM CEREMONY
• GALA NIGHT

DAY 3

• OFFICIAL PRACTICE
• XTREME SIDE EVENTS AND
• SHOWS
• RACE 2
• PODIUM CEREMONY

THE SECRET OF SUCCESS

• Containerization: pioneering innovation
• Race Format: spectator friendly
• Partnership concept
• Local Engagement: on-shore activity
• Hi-tech Media coverage: mobile apps
• and free-to-air broadcasting
• Design: dynamic and powerful
• Prize Money: highest in the powerboat
• sport
• Low budget: high cost efficiency
• Safety focus:  benchmark  standards
• implemented
• Experienced management

One of the key factors contributing to the success of XCAT is its innovative containerization design. The XCAT Hull has been meticulously crafted with container dimensions in mind. The specially designed container can accommodate one boat and a significant portion of the team’s equipment. This modular system significantly reduces team costs by up to 80% compared to other transportation models. It empowers teams to allocate their budget towards participating in more global events, enhancing their competitive edge.

VILLAGE IN A BOX

Not only the boats but the entire race village are transported and managed by the promoter:

• Teams’ boats
• Teams’ workshops
• VIP Hospitality
• Timekeeping and race control tower
• Media and race management offices
• Corporate branding
• Pit transportation vehicles (quads)
• Prize giving Podium
• Pontoon elements
• Broadcasting studios

This innovative XCAT system is designed to fit seamlessly into a series of branded shipping containers, allowing for efficient transport, unpacking, and repacking by a skilled team. This ensures that the XCAT can be easily transported to any location with water access, whether by sea or over land.

“If you are in control you are driving too slow”

THE TEAMS

BOAT #2 “SWECAT”

The Swedish team, led by drivers Sebastian Groth and Joakim Kumlin, is set to compete with boat number 2. Sebastian, the youngest driver, made his debut at this level in 2018, showing remarkable potential. On the other hand, Joakim boasts a first-class powerboating career, having started competing on boats at the impressive age of 12. As an adult, he has been racing in XCAT since 2013, demonstrating his exceptional skills and experience in the sport.

BOAT #3 “DUBAI POLICE”

The legendary team, with their boat “Dubai Police” (No. 3), proudly represents the vibrant colors of the Emirate of Dubai in the XCAT Championship. Piloted by the closely-knit and award-winning drivers, Arif al Zaffain and Nadir bin Hendi, this team has clinched the prestigious XCAT World Championship title five times.

BOAT #96 “HPI RACING”

The high-performance Italia Team is truly a “family thing”. After making their individual debuts in 2018, the young brothers Giuseppe and Rosario Schiano joined forces to race together in the Championship, under the expert guidance of their father Antonio, who is the current team manager and the heart and soul of the team. Now, as the two brothers continue to advance their skills, we eagerly anticipate seeing them triumph on the racecourse.

BOAT #6 “THE SIX”

The AL&AL Team is fuelled by Italian passion, led by the legendary driver Alfredo Amato. In 1991, Alfredo made history by winning the prestigious Venice-Montecarlo race, propelling him into the world of high-class powerboat racing, where he has remained ever since. Since the 2019 season, he has joined forces with Saul Bubacco, an esteemed XCAT Driver since 2014.

BOAT #7 “VICTORY TEAM”

Discover the thrilling history of powerboating with the VICTORY TEAM, spanning over 30 years of excellence. Get ready for the return of BOAT #7 to the Championship! Join drivers Eric Stark and Mohamed Alyamahi onboard, as well as the talented newcomer to the sport, who has been racing X-CAT since 2013, bringing with him a successful background in other powerboat disciplines. Get ready to witness an electrifying display of skill and determination!

BOAT #8 “TEAM GB”

The British team proudly presents two seasoned pilots, Scott Williams and Martin Campbell. Scott has showcased his skills in the Championship in 2013 and 2017, demonstrating his expertise in powerboating. On the other hand, Martin has made his debut in XCAT in 2021, bringing a fresh perspective to the team as a veteran in powerboating in different disciplines.

BOAT #9 “NEW STAR”

Two seasoned drivers, Mikhail Kitashev and Dmitry Vandyshev, who previously competed in the World Endurance race, have now joined forces to take on the XCAT Championship. With their impressive track record and determination, this dynamic duo is poised to unleash their full potential in the XCAT World Championship.

BOAT #10 “222 OFFSHORE”

Darren Nicholson and Giovanni Carpitella make a perfect Australia-Italy combination. With a collection of individual titles from various powerboat disciplines, these two drivers embarked on their XCAT adventure at different times. However, since 2015, they have become inseparable. It’s undeniable that Darren and Giovanni form a closely-knit team, brimming with vast experience and boundless ambition.

BOAT @12 “MARITIMO”

The Australian Maritimo Team, the XCAT World Champion in 2019, is gearing up for the 2022 Championship with drivers Tom Barry-Cotter and Pal Virik Nilsen, the Norwegian powerboat champion, who will be back in the cockpit alongside Tom. Get ready for an exhilarating comeback!

BOAT #16 “FORESTI & SUARDI”

In 2019, the Lucky Racing Team burst onto the scene, with drivers who are veterans in the XCAT Championship and the powerboat racing world. Roberto Lo Piano and Giampaolo Montavoci, both seasoned professionals, bring boundless passion to the sport.

BOAT #17 “KUWAIT”

Kuwait’s flag proudly waves from boat number 17. Since the inception of the XCAT category, driver Abdullatif Al Omani has been a proud contender in this class. Since 2017, his partnership with driver Moustafa Al Dashti has been inseparable. Together, they form an iconic duo, blending their professionalism and passion for powerboat racing with their playful and generous spirit in the XCAT paddock. Team Raheb is truly admirable and undeniably one of the most beloved in the sport.

VISIBILITY

I N T E R N A T I O N A L   V I S I B I L I T Y

• W I D E S P R E A D I N T E R N A T I O N A L  T V  C O V E R A G E  A N D  D I S T R I B U T I O N
• F R E E – T O – A I R L I V E  T V  A N D  W E B  S T R E A M I N G
• W O R L D W I D E P R O G R A M  D I S T R I B U T I O N
• I N T E R N A T I O N A L P R E S S  O F F I C E  A C T I V I T I E S

L O C A L   V I S I B I L I T Y

• L O C A L E V E N T S  A U D I E N C E
• L O C A L P R E S S  O F F I C E  A C T I V I T I E S
• M E D I A P A R T N E R S H I P S
• A D V E R T I S I N G

BROADCASTING

In-house production and distribution services for the UIM XCAT World Championship include:

• Unilateral live broadcast feeds of the race event
• Magazine-style highlights packages
• Online content modules
• Lifestyle programs & modules providing an inside look into the world of the UIM XCAT World ChampionshipOur dedicated broadcast production team covers all aspects of TV production, broadcast, and distribution. They enhance the quality and consistency of the broadcast feed with the sole purpose of creating more exciting content, telling the amazing story of the Championship, and growing the global audience.

The production team meticulously screens the race location, builds the production plan, sources all the necessary infrastructure, and delivers the broadcast and highlights packages.

Additionally, they have a comprehensive plan for social media content and engagement surrounding the race event, engaging audiences with snackable content that brings the Championship’s story to life from the inside.

X-CAT MEDIA MACHINE

The UIM XCAT World Championship is filled with thrilling events and cutting-edge sports activities, creating an action-packed program that guarantees excitement. With an HD live digital production featuring over 10 cameras on stage, onboard cameras, on-screen graphics, and various distribution formats, the event ensures a visually stunning experience. Additionally, live streaming with commentary in 2 languages, a 26-minute highlights program, and comprehensive coverage through Magazine & News provided by our Partner ICARUS Sports make it an event not to be missed.

LIFESTYLE

THE PADDOCK

Welcome to the heart of the XCAT world – a highly exclusive place reserved for pilots, team managers, XCAT crew, and selected VIP guests. It’s an extraordinary space that embodies luxury and prestige, offering an unparalleled experience for those who appreciate the finest details of yachting.

“THE PLACE TO BE”

 X-CAT GLAMOUR

Experience the epitome of luxury with our glamorous events, from dazzling gala nights to enchanting welcome parties, and so much more. These events not only showcase international elegance but also celebrate the rich heritage and vibrant tourism of the local area. Join us for an unforgettable experience that merges opulence with cultural splendour.

PACECAT EXPERIENCE

Designed for those who want to experience the most exhilarating adventure, the Pacecat initiative offers a front-row seat in the XCAT world. This experience provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to journey around the official XCAT Grand Prix race course and savor the unique thrill of XCAT powerboat racing. It’s an experience like no other, aimed at those seeking an extraordinary and adrenaline-pumping escapade.