The E1 series is the world's first all-electric powerboat championship and sets new standards in water sports. It was founded by Alejandro Agag, who has already created Formula E and Extreme E, and Rodi Basso, a former Ferrari and NASA engineer. Their goal? Sustainability, innovation and lots of action on the water!
The teams led by real superstars are a particular highlight. Tom Brady, Rafael Nadal, Steve Aoki, LeBron James, Will Smith and many other celebrities are taking part with their own teams and attracting even more attention. They are not only lending their names, but are also actively campaigning for clean technologies and sustainable mobility.
The bolides
The RaceBird, a spectacular, all-electric racing boat from Sophi Horne, will be used for the race. Thanks to foiling technology, it lifts out of the water at high speed and virtually glides over the surface - very similar to the "Malizia - Seaexplorer" from Hermann. Foiling reduces water resistance enormously, making the boat faster and more energy-efficient at the same time. The RaceBird can reach speeds of up to 50 knots (93 km/h) - and all without fossil fuels.
Fun fact: the Malizia is around 20 km/h slower at 39.6 knots (73.3 km/h). However, the boats are absolutely not comparable.
The E1 Series is not only an exciting racing series, but also a real statement in favour of environmental protection. The organisers actively support the restoration of coastal habitats and promote educational projects on the topic of marine conservation.
The first race of the season is already over. At the E1 Jeddah GP, the season opener of the UIM E1 World Championship, Steve Aoki's team triumphed over Rafael Nadal's team. The Aoki Racing Team thus secured its first victory after a difficult 2024 season. The performance of Saudi Arabian driver Mashael Alobaidan, who won the race together with her team-mate Dani Clos, was particularly impressive. Alobaidan described the victory as the highlight of her career.
The first E1 race is over
Steve Aoki commented on his team's victory: "Last year, I think we finished last or almost last. This shows that even the underdog has a chance if you have determination, passion and love for the sport. We got together and retooled everything we could, we put our heart and determination into it, and to see it all here and now and to win is just a dream come true."
Eric Stark, the Swedish driver in the Miami powered by Magnus team, drove the fastest lap of the race day and secured an extra point for Marc Anthony's team.
As of the end of January, the Aoki Racing Team leads with 39 points, followed by Team Rafa with 30 points and Team Blue Rising of Virat Kohli with 24 points. The next race is on 22 February in Doha, where each team has the chance to reshuffle the cards. One of the highlights will be the race in Monaco on 19 July 2025. There, the boats will race through the legendary harbour.
Click here to go to the Race calendar
