Formula E : ITV signs new deal for free-to-air broadcasts in UK & Ireland

Formula E : ITV signs new deal for free-to-air broadcasts in UK & Ireland

The Formula E championship continues to expand its global reach with ITV securing broadcasting rights for UK and Irish audiences. This partnership extension demonstrates the growing appeal of electric motorsport and ensures fans can access thrilling races without subscription barriers. The collaboration between ITV and Formula E represents a significant milestone in making sustainable racing more accessible to mainstream audiences.

Extended broadcasting partnership strengthens Formula E presence

ITV has successfully negotiated a two-year contract extension with Formula E, maintaining their broadcasting partnership through the 2026/27 season. This agreement covers seasons 12 and 13 of the all-electric racing series, ensuring comprehensive coverage across multiple platforms. The deal reinforces ITV’s commitment to delivering high-quality motorsport content to viewers throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland.

The broadcasting arrangement provides extensive coverage options for different viewing preferences. All qualifying sessions will stream live exclusively on ITVX, the broadcaster’s digital platform. Race coverage adopts a flexible approach, with the 18 races scheduled for either ITV4 with simultaneous ITVX streaming or exclusive ITVX broadcast. This multi-platform strategy maximizes accessibility while accommodating various viewing habits and schedules.

Weekly highlight programs will air on ITV4 following each race weekend, providing comprehensive recaps for those unable to watch live coverage. These shows offer condensed action and analysis, perfect for casual viewers wanting to stay connected with championship developments. The format ensures no fan misses crucial moments from the electric racing spectacle.

Calendar highlights and technological evolution

The upcoming season launches December 6, 2025, with the vibrant streets of São Paulo hosting the opening round. This Brazilian venue promises an electrifying start to what organizers describe as the largest Formula E season to date. The expanded calendar introduces fresh locations while maintaining popular existing circuits that have proven successful with fans and drivers alike.

Several exciting additions mark this season’s schedule, including debut races in Madrid and Miami’s International Autodrome. These new venues bring Formula E to major metropolitan areas, expanding the championship’s global footprint significantly. The calendar also welcomes back beloved locations like Berlin, Tokyo, and Shanghai, each hosting double-header weekends with two races per location.

Location Race Format Status
São Paulo Season Opener December 6, 2025
Madrid Single Race New Venue
Miami Single Race New Venue
Monaco Double Header Returning
London ExCeL Double Header Season Finale

Monaco returns with its legendary street circuit hosting two races during one weekend, adding prestige to an already impressive calendar. The season concludes in London with a thrilling double-header at ExCeL on August 15-16, 2026. This finale marks the end of the Gen3-Evo era, creating anticipation for the next technological advancement.

Industry perspectives and future developments

Richard Botchway, ITV Sport’s deputy head, expressed enthusiasm about continuing the Formula E partnership. He emphasized the incredible excitement surrounding the championship’s current phase and ITV’s pride in delivering premium racing content without cost barriers. The broadcaster recognizes Formula E’s growing popularity and commercial potential in the UK market.

Jonathan Salt, Formula E’s media vice president, highlighted the partnership’s significance for British and Irish fans. He stressed how this agreement ensures the championship remains accessible to the widest possible audience through free-to-air broadcasting. This accessibility strategy supports Formula E’s mission to promote sustainable motorsport to mainstream audiences.

The partnership timeline perfectly aligns with Formula E’s technological evolution. The agreement covers the final seasons of the Gen3-Evo cars before the anticipated Gen4 vehicle debuts in late 2026. This transition period offers viewers a unique opportunity to witness both the culmination of current technology and the dawn of the next generation. Key benefits of this extended partnership include :

  1. Comprehensive coverage across digital and traditional platforms
  2. Free access ensuring maximum audience reach
  3. Professional production quality maintaining broadcasting standards
  4. Strategic timing covering major technological transitions

Broadcasting team and production details

ITV plans to announce their presenting and commentary team shortly, building anticipation among dedicated followers. The broadcaster typically assembles experienced motorsport professionals who understand Formula E’s unique technical aspects and competitive dynamics. This expertise ensures viewers receive insightful analysis and engaging commentary throughout race weekends.

Production quality remains paramount as Formula E continues attracting new audiences. The series demands sophisticated coverage capturing both racing action and the technological innovation driving these electric vehicles. ITV’s experience with motorsport broadcasting positions them well to showcase Formula E’s distinctive characteristics effectively.

This contract extension represents more than simple broadcasting rights; it symbolizes the mainstream acceptance of electric motorsport. As environmental consciousness grows globally, Formula E serves as a powerful ambassador for sustainable racing technology. The partnership between ITV and Formula E demonstrates how traditional broadcasters can support innovative sporting formats while delivering compelling entertainment to their audiences.

James Farrell
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