Formula E finds a new home on Disney+, ESPN+
Source Entity
Jonathan M. Gitlin
Formula E has announced a major multiyear broadcasting partnership with Disney+ and ESPN+, moving away from its previous home on Roku. This transition aligns with the launch of the GEN4 car in the 2026/2027 season, aiming to expand the racing series' global reach.
A Strategic Shift in Electric Racing Broadcasting
Formula E has officially entered a transformative era for its media distribution, announcing a comprehensive multiyear deal that will see the racing series broadcast on Disney+ and ESPN+. This agreement, which takes effect this December at the start of season 12, marks a significant departure from the championship's previous broadcasting arrangement with Roku, which had been the primary home for the sport in the United States since 2023. By moving to a platform with the global footprint of Disney, Formula E is clearly positioning itself to capture a larger, more diverse international audience.
Aligning with the GEN4 Era
The timing of this partnership is no coincidence, as it perfectly aligns with the arrival of the GEN4 car and the highly anticipated 2026/2027 season. The GEN4 platform represents a technological leap forward for the sport, promising higher speeds, improved efficiency, and more sophisticated battery technology. By coupling this hardware evolution with a high-profile media partner, Formula E is attempting to create a synergistic marketing effect, ensuring that the debut of its most advanced racing vehicle receives maximum visibility across 144 countries.
Expanding Global Reach and Accessibility
Under the terms of this new deal, fans will benefit from comprehensive coverage, including every practice session, qualifying round, and the ePrix itself. This level of granular access is vital for maintaining the engagement of the hardcore motorsport fanbase while also providing enough content for casual viewers to become acclimated to the nuances of electric racing. Disney’s established infrastructure allows for a more seamless viewing experience, which is essential for a sport that relies heavily on digital-first audiences and younger demographics.
The CEO’s Vision for Growth
Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds has characterized this deal as a "landmark moment," emphasizing that the partnership leverages Disney’s storytelling capabilities to highlight the "drama, innovation, and excitement" inherent in the championship. For a sport that is inherently tied to the global transition toward sustainable energy, the ability to narrate the story of innovation is just as important as the racing itself. This partnership aims to convert the technical achievements of the GEN4 era into compelling entertainment that resonates with a wider public.
Future Implications for Motorsport
As Formula E continues to evolve, the shift toward major streaming platforms like Disney+ and ESPN+ suggests a broader trend in sports media: the move away from traditional linear television toward dedicated, global streaming ecosystems. For Formula E, this is a necessary step to compete for attention in a crowded sports landscape. If successful, this partnership could set a new benchmark for how niche, technology-focused sports leagues utilize global media giants to scale their brand and cement their place in the future of international motorsports.