Kyrgyzstan hosts first F1H2O race on Lake Issyk-Kul PHOTO / VIDEO

Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov on Saturday, August 1, officially opened a round of the F1H2O World Championship on Lake Issyk-Kul, marking the first time the event has been staged at the high-altitude venue.

According to Kyrgyz media, cited by Caliber.Az, the opening ceremony was attended by leaders of neighbouring countries, underscoring the regional significance of the event.

“This is one of the most prestigious, spectacular and high-tech competitions in world sport. Leaders of neighbouring states are taking part in the ceremonial event. Their participation confirms that Central Asia, in unity, is becoming a region of trust, friendship, good neighbourliness and joint development,” Japarov said.

He added that the world’s leading drivers would showcase their skills at an altitude of 1,607 metres above sea level, highlighting the unique conditions of the race.

The F1H2O World Championship — short for Formula 1 Powerboat Racing — is the premier category of international motorboat competition and is often described as “Formula 1 on water.”

By Tamilla Hasanova