After a four-month hiatus, the FIA Formula E World Championship roars back to life in São Paulo, Brazil. Defending champion Pascal Wehrlein of TAG Heuer Porsche returns with the coveted #1 on his car, aiming to replicate the drama and glory of his championship-clinching victory in London. But the grid has never been more stacked, with rival teams and drivers sharpening their claws for Season 10.
The Grid Shake-Up
As ever, Formula E’s competitive spirit thrives on unpredictability, and this season brings fresh faces, new teams, and tantalizing matchups:
- Kiro Race Co: Formerly ERT, the newly American-licensed team partners with Porsche reserve driver David Beckmann and returning maverick Dan Ticktum, although official confirmation is pending.
- Lola’s Return: The legendary Lola name graces motorsport once more, now powered by Yamaha. Rookie Zane Maloney will line up alongside FE stalwart Lucas di Grassi, eager to make an impact.
- Driver Swaps:
- NEOM McLaren: Rookie sensation Taylor Barnard joins full-time alongside the electrifying Sam Bird.
- Maserati MSG Racing: Outgoing McLaren driver Jake Hughes partners with Season 8 champion Stoffel Vandoorne, who moves from DS Penske.
- DS Penske: Maximilian Günther switches seats with Vandoorne, promising a fresh dynamic for the team.
- Andretti Porsche: Nico Müller, now a Porsche works driver, bolsters the customer team, with Norman Nato rejoining Nissan to partner Oliver Rowland.
São Paulo Circuit: A Stage for Drama
Returning for its third year, the Anhembi Sambadrome is a high-speed, 1.8-mile circuit with 11 corners and three lengthy straights, demanding precision and power. Famous for its peloton-style racing, it’s the perfect setting for another electrifying showdown.
- Key Corners: Turns 9 and 10 offer the fastest action, while low-speed bends require strategic mastery.
- Attack Mode: Positioned at Turn 3, this feature promises added excitement.
The circuit has a history of thrilling finishes, none more so than last year’s breathtaking finale, where Sam Bird clinched victory in a daring last-lap overtake on Mitch Evans, delivering NEOM McLaren its maiden Formula E win.
Schedule and Broadcast
- FP1: Friday, Dec. 6 – 16:30 (local time)
- FP2: Saturday, Dec. 7 – 07:30 (local time)
- Qualifying: Saturday, Dec. 7 – 09:40 (local time)
- Race Start: Saturday, Dec. 7 – 14:05 (local time)
UK Coverage: Live on TNT Sports, with free-to-air access on ITV4 and ITVX, starting at 16:00 UK time.
Weather and Strategy
São Paulo’s forecast predicts rain, with potential clear skies by mid-afternoon. Wet conditions will test drivers’ precision and adaptability, while the heat—hovering around 30°C—will challenge energy management.
What to Watch For
- Wehrlein’s Defense: Can the reigning champion repeat last year’s brilliance and fend off fierce challengers?
- Jaguar’s Redemption: Will Nick Cassidy and Mitch Evans bounce back from their heartbreak in London?
- Rookie Impact: Keep an eye on Beckmann and Maloney as they debut in one of motorsport’s most competitive series.
- Weather Wildcard: Rain could transform the race into a strategic and chaotic masterclass.
Get ready for electrifying action as Formula E’s finest return to the track, promising another unforgettable season of high-stakes, wheel-to-wheel racing!