Formula E: A guide to the world's premier electric racing championship

Overview: Formula E has evolved from an electric-racing experiment into a global motorsport championship with hundreds of millions of fans. As Paysafe begins its journey as the title partner of Paysafe Envision Racing, here's what makes Formula E unique and why the series continues to attract growing attention worldwide.

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Formula E has come a long way since the first race was held on the streets of Beijing in 2014. What began as a bold experiment in electric motorsport has grown into a global championship with more than 422 million fans worldwide, a record 561 million cumulative TV viewers, and races in some of the world's most iconic cities

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The series' momentum continues to accelerate. New broadcast partnerships, growing audiences, and the arrival of world-leading manufacturers have helped establish Formula E as one of the fastest-growing motorsport properties.

As Paysafe prepares for its first season as title partner of Paysafe Envision Racing, there's no better time to get acquainted with the championship. Whether you're new to Formula E or simply curious about what sets it apart, here's what you need to know about the world's premier electric racing series and why millions of fans tune in every season!

What is Formula E?

Formula E is the world's premier all-electric racing championship. Sanctioned by the FIA, the series unites elite drivers, leading manufacturers, and cutting-edge EV technology in a competition designed specifically for electric racing.

Since its launch in 2014, Formula E has established itself as a distinctive part of the motorsport landscape. Events are typically held on street circuits in major cities, bringing the sport closer to fans and showcasing the potential of electric mobility.

Today, its races take place in destinations including Tokyo, Berlin, Shanghai, Monaco, and London, with world-renowned teams and manufacturers competing throughout the season. Alongside the on-track action, Formula E has become a proving ground for innovations shaping the future of electric vehicles.

Its combination of world-class racing, technology, and innovation has helped transform Formula E from a new motorsport concept into a global championship followed by hundreds of millions of fans worldwide.

How Formula E differs from Formula 1

While Formula E's all-electric cars and city-center race locations help set it apart from many traditional motorsport championships, the differences don't end there.

Although Formula E and Formula 1 share the same competitive spirit, the racing experience is very different. Success in Formula E depends heavily on strategy, energy management, and making the most of every opportunity on track. Drivers must carefully balance performance and efficiency throughout a race, creating a unique challenge that can dramatically influence race outcomes.

The championship is also known for embracing innovation. During the 2024-25 season, Formula E introduced the GEN3 Evo car, which the series describes as the fastest-accelerating FIA single-seater ever built, capable of reaching 60 mph in just 1.82 seconds. The season also saw the launch of Pit Boost, a new feature that allows cars to receive a rapid energy recharge during races, adding another strategic element for teams and drivers.

Together, these innovations help create a style of racing that feels distinct from Formula 1 while showcasing technologies that could help shape the future of electric mobility.

Why Formula E is growing so quickly

One of the clearest signs of Formula E's growing profile is its new agreement with Disney+. Starting next season, Disney+ will be the championship's streaming home in 144 countries and territories, giving Formula E access to one of the world's largest entertainment platforms and helping introduce the series to new audiences worldwide.

At the same time, Formula E continues to build a highly engaged digital fanbase. During the 2024-25 season, the championship generated more than 1.39 billion social media impressions, and race-related content drove 28% higher engagement than the previous season. Its social media following also grew 10% year over year, underscoring growing interest across digital platforms.

That momentum is translating into record audiences for key events. A clear example is the Mexico City E-Prix, which drew 46 million viewers worldwide, making it the season's most-watched race and underscoring Formula E's expanding appeal among fans worldwide.

Combined with continued investment in innovation and a rapidly expanding global audience, Formula E is establishing itself as one of the fastest-growing motorsport properties.

Why Paysafe partnered with Envision Racing

As Formula E continues to grow its global audience, Paysafe is joining the journey as the title partner of Paysafe Envision Racing.

The partnership unites two organizations focused on innovation, technology, and digitally connected consumers. Formula E's growing audience spans digital commerce, gaming, entertainment, and technology, making it a natural fit for Paysafe's business and customers. More than a traditional sponsorship, the partnership aims to create new ways for fans to engage with the sport through digital experiences, rewards, and gaming initiatives.

As Formula E enters a new phase of growth and visibility, Paysafe Envision Racing offers an opportunity to connect with millions of fans through one of motorsport's fastest-growing championships.

Looking ahead to the new season

The next Formula E season gets underway in December 2026, beginning in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and will tour the world. The championship enters an exciting new chapter, expanding its global reach, attracting new audiences, and pushing the boundaries of electric racing through innovation on and off the track.

For Paysafe, the upcoming season marks the start of a new journey as the title partner of Paysafe Envision Racing. As the action returns to the track, fans can expect the partnership to come to life through new experiences, activations, and opportunities to engage with the sport throughout the season.

Whether you're discovering Formula E for the first time or already follow the championship closely, the upcoming season promises plenty of reasons to tune in!

FAQs

What is Formula E?

Formula E is the world's premier all-electric racing championship. Sanctioned by the FIA, it showcases electric race cars on street circuits in major cities worldwide.

How is Formula E different from Formula 1?

Unlike Formula 1, Formula E uses fully electric race cars and places greater emphasis on energy management and electric-vehicle innovation. Many races are also held on temporary city-center circuits rather than on traditional race tracks.

Why has Paysafe partnered with Envision Racing?

Paysafe's partnership with Envision Racing reflects a shared focus on innovation, technology, and connecting with digitally engaged audiences. The partnership also creates new opportunities to engage Formula E fans through digital experiences and activations.