The E1 powerboat series announced its 2026 calendar will feature eight global destinations, starting with the season opener in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on January 23.
The all-electric racing series will take nine teams and 18 pilots across four continents throughout the year. After Saudi Arabia, the championship moves to Europe with Italy’s Lake Como hosting in April.
European Circuit Expansion
Croatia’s Dubrovnik gets the June slot, followed by Monaco making its E1 debut in July.
The series hasn’t confirmed the fifth round’s September location yet. Lagos, Nigeria will host the sixth event, marking E1’s continued expansion into new markets.
Miami takes the penultimate spot before the season finale heads to the Caribbean for the first time in the Bahamas.
Technical Specifications
E1 operates as the world’s only fully-electric racing boat series sanctioned by the Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM). Each RaceBird boat requires both male and female pilots – similar to the format used in Extreme H rallying.
The RaceBird produces 200bhp through its Kriesel-supplied outboard electric motor.
Pilots control the power from an enclosed cabin while the boats achieve foiling capabilities – making them the first electric racing boats to lift above water during competition.
Several drivers crossed over from electric motorsport, including Timmy Hansen, the 2019 World Rallycross champion, and former Extreme E competitor Catie Munnings.
Celebrity Ownership
High-profile team owners include Will Smith, Rafael Nadal, LeBron James, and Tom Brady – bringing significant mainstream attention to the championship.
The series made its competitive debut in 2024 and has rapidly expanded its global reach.
“The 2026 E1 calendar marks an exciting new chapter for us. We’re rapidly establishing an exciting, truly global championship that combines cutting-edge electric innovation with iconic coastal cities and new markets,” said series co-founder Alejandro Agag.
Fellow co-founder and CEO Rodi Basso emphasized the championship’s broader mission.
“Our vision for E1 has always been to inspire change through competition. This calendar showcases that ambition – reaching more countries, engaging more fans, and continuing to demonstrate that electric marine mobility is the future.”
The series now broadcasts in over 140 territories worldwide following its successful 2025 season. The complete 2026 calendar is available at e1series.com.
