Formula E is at a pivotal moment in its journey. Entering its eleventh season, the all-electric racing series stands at a crossroads where growth, innovation, and fan engagement must converge to cement its place in motorsport’s upper echelon. With sustainability increasingly shaping the global agenda and the electric vehicle (EV) market booming, 2025 offers Formula E an unprecedented opportunity to shine.
Here’s why this could be the defining year for Formula E—and what the series must do to capitalise on its potential.
A Growing Appetite for Sustainability in Motorsport
As governments worldwide push for greener technologies and consumers embrace EVs at record rates, Formula E’s core identity as a sustainable racing series has never been more relevant. The championship has always been a showcase for cutting-edge EV technology, and in 2025, it has the chance to position itself as the motorsport of the future.
Brands and manufacturers are increasingly aligning with environmentally friendly initiatives. Major automakers like Jaguar, Porsche, and Nissan already compete in the series, but with traditional motorsports like Formula 1 slowly pivoting towards sustainability, Formula E must move quickly to maintain its edge.
Challenges and Opportunities in Audience Growth
While Formula E’s vision aligns with global trends, its fan base remains a fraction of Formula 1’s. The championship has struggled to balance its technical innovations with creating the kind of spectacle that captivates casual viewers.
To capitalise in 2025, Formula E must double down on fan engagement. With Gen3 cars now in full swing—offering faster speeds and longer battery life—the racing action is better than ever. The series should highlight these technological advancements in its marketing, showcasing how Formula E is pushing boundaries in electric racing.
Moreover, expanding its reach in key markets, particularly the United States and Asia, will be crucial. Events like the E-Prix in New York City and Seoul have demonstrated the potential for growth in these regions, and 2025 presents an opportunity to enhance the spectacle and attract new audiences.
Strengthening the Calendar and Venues
A competitive and geographically diverse calendar is critical for any global racing series. While Formula E’s street-circuit format brings racing directly to urban centers, the series has faced criticism for its inconsistent calendar and occasional venue issues.
In 2025, Formula E must focus on securing iconic locations that enhance the championship’s prestige. Expanding into regions with a growing interest in sustainability, such as the Middle East and Southeast Asia, could solidify its global presence.
At the same time, Formula E should continue its tradition of racing in cities like London, Berlin, and Monaco, ensuring it maintains ties with motorsport’s historical roots.
Leveraging Manufacturer and Driver Star Power
Formula E’s ability to attract top-tier manufacturers and drivers is a strength that can’t be understated. In 2025, the series should amplify the stories of its star drivers—like Jake Dennis, Mitch Evans, and António Félix da Costa—to create narratives that resonate with fans.
The involvement of household automotive brands like Porsche, Jaguar, and Maserati is another marketing goldmine. By emphasizing how Formula E serves as a testing ground for the EVs consumers will drive tomorrow, the championship can strengthen its connection with audiences.
Broadcasting and Digital Innovation
Formula E’s broadcast strategy will be critical to its 2025 success. While the series has improved its television coverage in recent years, it must further refine its product to appeal to both hardcore racing fans and newcomers. Enhanced race-day coverage, dynamic storytelling, and seamless access via streaming platforms will be key to expanding its audience.
The series should also continue leveraging its fan-centric innovations, such as “FanBoost” and the Attack Mode system, to differentiate itself from other motorsports. Engaging younger audiences through social media, esports tie-ins, and interactive content will further strengthen its position.
The Threat from Formula 1
Formula 1 remains the elephant in the room. With its growing focus on sustainability and popularity at an all-time high, Formula 1 is actively encroaching on Formula E’s unique space. While Formula E may not yet rival F1’s global dominance, it has the advantage of being a fully electric series with a decade of experience in EV racing.
In 2025, Formula E must lean into its identity as a trailblazer in the electric revolution, rather than attempting to compete directly with F1’s glitz and glamour.
Looking Ahead
Formula E is uniquely positioned to thrive in 2025. With sustainability becoming more than just a buzzword, the series has a clear opportunity to lead the conversation around the future of motorsport. However, to capitalise, Formula E must focus on improving its visibility, expanding its audience, and continuing to innovate on and off the track.
By doing so, Formula E can solidify its reputation as not just the racing series of today, but the motorsport of tomorrow.
