At the beginning of this year, plans were announced for a new series of electric touring cars, based on the Mini Cooper, to join the Formula E in various European events. However, there were last-minute complications in the agreement between Formula E and the Swedish organizer, Fredrik Lestrup and the Lestrup racing team. As a result, NXT Gen’s participation in supporting Formula E at these events was canceled. It is still possible for NXT Gen to participate in other events, such as those supporting the DTM this season. Formula E now faces the challenge of reshaping its paddock and organizing additional marketing and fan activities without the presence of NXT Gen Cup cars.
The NXT Gen Cup, which took place last season in Swedish and European locations, was created to promote electric vehicle racing and provide opportunities for young drivers, engineers, and team members to gain experience in international racing. Formula E remains committed to supporting young talent through initiatives like the FIA Girls on Track. However, Formula E has faced difficulties in hosting support races in the past, including the short-lived Jaguar I-Pace eTROPHY, which was unsuccessful, and other initiatives to increase track time during E-Prix events.
The NXT Gen Cup was a surprising addition to Formula E’s support races this year. The series gained momentum in recent weeks, with many drivers signing up for the grid, most of whom came from karting. The series had a solid professional structure, with an experienced team and a well-structured sports framework. Unfortunately, the series had to be canceled due to financial problems caused by an unreliable investor, which damaged its credibility on the international stage.
It is disappointing that the partnership between Copa NXT Gen and Formula E has ended in this way. Both parties had a lot to gain from this collaboration, as Copa NXT Gen focuses on sustainable racing. However, it seems that this step may have been too early for the series. Hopefully, Copa NXT Gen will be able to regroup and come back in a stronger position in the future. In the meantime, Formula E is dealing with an embarrassing situation just days before what should have been an exciting new project for the next generation of drivers.
