Four-time Formula One World Champion Sebastian Vettel is set to headline the ninth edition of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival, joining a high-profile lineup of global founders, innovators and thought leaders.

According to the national news agency Wam, Vettel will address key issues around sustainability and social responsibility, reflecting his growing role beyond motorsport as an advocate for climate awareness and ethical leadership.

The former F1 champion will be joined by a distinguished group of speakers, including Vadim Fedotov, Founder of Bioniq; Amna Al Qubaisi, the first Emirati female racing driver to compete in international single-seater championships; and Ahmed Al Rawi, Founder of regional food-tech startup Calo.

The festival will take place from January 31 to February 1 at the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park, bringing together more than 300 founders, CEOs, investors, creatives and industry leaders from around the world.

Organisers expect the event to attract around 14,000 attendees, offering a platform for dialogue, collaboration and practical insights aimed at empowering startups, professionals and graduates to contribute to sustainable economic growth in the region and beyond.