Sheikh Hassan Returns to Powerboat Racing with Steve Curtis in Key West

Sheikh Hassan bin Jabor Al-Thani has made a significant return to international powerboat racing after an 11-year absence. The former leading competitor in the UIM Class One World Powerboat Championship announced his comeback, partnering with British throttleman Steve Curtis MBE for the upcoming 44th Annual Offshore World Championship in Key West, Florida, scheduled from November 2 to 9, 2023.

Sheikh Hassan, who was a formidable presence in the racing scene until he stepped back at the end of 2014, rejoins Curtis, who has continued to compete at the highest levels of American offshore racing. The duo will race under the iconic name of the Spirit of Qatar 96, utilizing a new boat in the Extreme class.

Excitement Builds for Key West Championship

Support for this venture comes from Qatar’s Ministry of Sport and Youth. The partnership aims to not only compete but also to re-establish their reputation within the sport. “Our last race together was in 2014, but we will be testing during the third week of October before heading to Key West,” Sheikh Hassan expressed with enthusiasm.

He added, “The goal, of course, will be the podium and to set plans in motion for the 2026 season. It will be a new boat for us to run together, but I am sure that Steve and I will settle in quickly.” The pair’s history includes a remarkable achievement in 2014 when they shattered the water speed record with a stunning second run of 244 mph at the 26th Annual Lake of the Ozarks Shootout in Missouri.

The racing festival in Key West consists of three races, kicking off with a traditional parade through the streets on November 2. Technical checks and registration are set for November 3, followed by official testing on November 4. The first race for the Truman Waterfront Cup will take place on November 5, featuring exciting on-water fireworks.

Racing Schedule and Community Engagement

Further testing is allowed on November 6, leading up to the second race for the Southernmost Continental Championship on November 7. The event will culminate with spectator-friendly activities planned for November 8 at Truman Waterfront Park, before concluding with the final race for the Conch Republic Championship on November 9.

As Sheikh Hassan and Steve Curtis prepare to make their mark once again in the powerboat racing world, excitement builds among fans and participants alike. Their commitment to the sport and each other promises to bring a thrilling dynamic to this year’s championship.