The all-electric powerboat racing championship, often called the 'new F1 on water,' has attracted star power from Will Smith, Rafael Nadal, and LeBron James. Founded by Formula E creator Alejandro Agag and former F1 engineer Rodi Basso, E1 features identical RaceBird boats racing on floating courses in eight stunning waterfront locations, including the Bahamas, Miami, and Lake Como.
How E1 Works
The RaceBird uses carbon-fibre hydrofoils that lift the hull out of the water to reduce drag, but going too high risks cavitation, where the foils lose grip and the boat slams back down. Strategy is key as teams navigate these challenges.
Key Differences from Formula One
Unlike F1, E1 teams are owned by celebrities rather than manufacturers. The all-electric boats reach 50 knots (58 mph) compared to F1's 200 mph, but they prioritize sustainability with minimal noise and marine disruption. A standout feature is gender parity: each team must have one male and one female pilot.
Gender Parity at the Core
CEO Jamie Copas emphasized that gender parity is foundational. “It's not about strength; it's about strategy. Men and women can compete equally,” he said. Pilot Mashael AlObaidan, the first Saudi woman to earn a rally license, agreed: “Racing is about skill and mental strength, not physicality like running or soccer.” She dreams of a mixed F1 race one day.
Growing the Audience
E1 is broadcast in 200 countries and has built a following through celebrity owners and short, intense races lasting up to 15 minutes—perfect for TikTok. The boats' limited battery life (two to three sessions per charge) shapes bite-sized content for modern fans. Stunning backdrops like Dubrovnik, Monaco, and the Bahamas attract live audiences.
Future Ambitions
E1 seeks two more teams, ideally female-owned, as all current celebrity owners are male. Jamie Copas called the F1 comparison “flattering” but noted F1's decades of history and billions in investment. “If in five years we have 30% of F1's audience, I'll be the happiest man,” he said.
