The Electric Revolution's Missing Links: Why Formula E's Absence from India and Italy Matters
Formula E, the globe-trotting electric racing series, is no stranger to innovation. With its Gen4 era kicking off and a record-breaking 21-race calendar, the championship is clearly on a roll. But amidst the buzz of new circuits and double-headers, co-founder Alberto Longo’s recent comments about 'missing' venues caught my attention. India and Italy, he says, are the two markets he’s eager to bring back. Personally, I think this isn’t just about filling gaps in the calendar—it’s about the soul of Formula E and its global mission.
India: A Market Too Big to Ignore
Let’s start with India. Hyderabad hosted a race in Season 9, but it hasn’t returned since, largely due to an ongoing corruption case. What many people don’t realize is that India isn’t just another market for Formula E—it’s a strategic cornerstone. Mahindra, an Indian manufacturer, has been a stalwart in the paddock, and Tata Consultancy Services, another Indian giant, is a title sponsor for Jaguar. If you take a step back and think about it, India’s absence feels like a missed opportunity to align the series’ sustainability message with a country that’s rapidly embracing electric mobility.
From my perspective, the challenge here isn’t just logistical—it’s symbolic. Formula E has always positioned itself as a catalyst for change, promoting clean energy and urban sustainability. India, with its booming population and growing environmental concerns, is the perfect stage for this narrative. The fact that Hyderabad’s race was well-received only adds to the irony of its absence. What this really suggests is that Formula E needs to navigate local politics and infrastructure challenges more proactively if it wants to reclaim this critical market.
Italy: A Passionate Affair Left Unfulfilled
Italy’s story is equally intriguing. Rome hosted eight races before dropping off the calendar in 2023, and Misano’s double-header in 2024 was, frankly, a letdown. One thing that immediately stands out is the passion Italian fans bring to motorsport. Longo himself noted that fans are 'literally texting us, saying they want us to come back.' This raises a deeper question: Why hasn’t Formula E been able to capitalize on this enthusiasm?
In my opinion, Italy’s absence isn’t just a scheduling issue—it’s a cultural misalignment. Formula E thrives in urban settings, where its message of sustainable mobility resonates most. Rome, with its historic streets and eco-conscious initiatives, was a perfect fit. Misano, on the other hand, felt like a mismatch. A detail that I find especially interesting is how Formula E’s shift toward permanent circuits might be complicating its relationship with countries like Italy, where street races have a unique charm.
The Broader Picture: Asia’s Awakening and Formula E’s Global Ambitions
Longo’s comments about Asia’s growing interest in Formula E are particularly fascinating. East Asian countries, he notes, see the series as a platform to promote electro-mobility in their cities. This isn’t just about hosting races—it’s about aligning with national sustainability goals. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Formula E is becoming more than a sport; it’s a tool for policy and cultural change.
But here’s the thing: while Asia’s appetite for Formula E is undeniable, the series can’t afford to neglect markets like India and Italy. These countries aren’t just venues; they’re cultural and economic powerhouses. If Formula E wants to be a truly global championship, it needs to balance expansion with retention. Personally, I think the series should adopt a more nuanced approach, one that respects local contexts while staying true to its mission.
The Future: A Calendar That Reflects Formula E’s Values
As Formula E pushes toward its maximum 22-round calendar, the choices it makes will define its identity. Adding new destinations like the Circuit of the Americas and Zandvoort is exciting, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of markets that have already proven their value. What this really suggests is that Formula E needs to think beyond logistics and performance capabilities. It needs to think about legacy.
In my opinion, the series should prioritize venues that amplify its message of sustainability and innovation. India and Italy aren’t just missing from the calendar—they’re missing from the narrative. Bringing them back wouldn’t just fill gaps; it would reinforce Formula E’s commitment to being a global force for change.
Final Thoughts
Formula E’s journey is as much about where it races as it is about why it races. India and Italy aren’t just markets—they’re opportunities to deepen the series’ impact. As Longo works to bring them back, I’m left wondering: What other 'missing' venues could redefine Formula E’s future? One thing’s for sure—the electric revolution isn’t just about cars; it’s about the stories we tell and the places we choose to tell them.
