Formula E Calendar 2024-25: CEO Jeff Dodds Reveals Ambitious Plans for City Racing Series
As Formula E approaches its 10-year milestone, CEO Jeff Dodds has outlined a bold vision for the all-electric championship, with a focus on city racing and a diverse range of venues. The newly released 2024-25 calendar, approved by the FIA’s World Motor Sport Council, features 17 races across 11 locations, starting in Sao Paulo in December and concluding in London at the ExCeL in July 2025.
Maintaining Formula E’s DNA
Dodds has been vocal about his desire to maintain Formula E‘s DNA as a city racing series, with less than 25% of the races taking place on fixed circuits. “From a sticking to our DNA point of view, three-quarters of our races will be on street circuits or built circuits,” he emphasized.
New Venues and Old Favorites
The 2024-25 calendar boasts an exciting mix of old favorites, with nine venues having hosted Formula E races previously. Two new locations will be visited for the first time, including Miami’s Homestead-Miami Speedway on April 12, which will utilize the majority of the infield road course section, and a yet-to-be-confirmed location in Thailand on March 8.
Departing Misano World Circuit
While Formula E has added Shanghai to the calendar for the current season, the championship will not return to Italy’s Misano World Circuit, which drew criticism for its remote location and frenetic racing style. “The reality is for the location, which is quite a way from the nearest airport and the style of racing which not everyone loved, it didn’t feel to us like that was going to be the permanent, long-term home,” Dodds admitted.
Expanding in the US and Balancing Safety
As Formula E expands its presence in markets where EV technology is on the rise, Dodds is seeking to add a second location in the US, with seven or eight large cities currently in talks to host a race. The push for more street circuits closer to city centers, however, poses a growing problem due to the increasing speeds of the cars.
“We are going to locations we’re really keen to race at, but if it’s not practical to build a race circuit in the middle of the city, we will look at permanent circuits but it’s about finding the right permanent circuits.”
The Gen3 Evo and upcoming Gen4 machines will further compound the issue, with the need for greater safety investments and potential limitations on the true potential of the machines. Dodds acknowledges the challenge, citing Formula 1‘s introduction of street circuits as proof that it can be done.
The Future of Formula E
For now, Formula E is committed to its city racing heritage, but the future of the championship will depend on finding a balance between showcasing EV technology and maintaining the viability of its current venues. As the series continues to evolve, one thing is clear – the next chapter of Formula E will be shaped by its commitment to innovation and its unwavering passion for city racing.
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