FORMULA E has announced a major change to its broadcasting strategy by bringing back free-to-air television.
In the past, the racing series was aired on channels like BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Channel 5, but it recently transitioned to a subscription model with TNT Sports, making it a groundbreaking move in its decade-long history.
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The series will officially return to ITV for the 2024/25 season, featuring live broadcasts and highlights available on the ITVX app and ITV4.
The season is set to kick off on December 7 in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Aarti Dabas, Formula E’s Chief Media Officer, conveyed her excitement: “We’re thrilled to provide fans in the UK and Ireland enhanced access to our exhilarating championship thanks to our esteemed media partners – TNT Sports and ITV – offering multiple ways for fans to engage with the sport.
“Our highlights show after each race weekend on ITV will include exclusive behind-the-scenes content, enriching the viewing experience for both new and long-time fans.
“We aim to deliver more thrilling on-track action while broadening the sport’s audience.”
This change in broadcasting will also see a new presenting team, as former BBC presenter Jermaine Jenas departs from the all-electric racing series.
Nicki Shields returns as the innovative presenter, making her mark as the first female lead in the series.
Since debuting in 2014, she has become a key figure on and off the track, notably being the first female lead commentator for the F1 Academy during its recent launch.
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Reflecting on her new role, Shields shared: “I fondly remember my first Formula E race in Beijing back in 2014, and my enthusiasm for this sport continues to thrive even a decade later.
“I’m delighted to be back as the lead presenter for Season 11. It’s a tremendous honor to share the thrill and excitement of this incredible sport with fans around the globe.
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“Together with our talented presenting team, we are committed to bringing audiences closer to the action than ever before. Let’s prepare for São Paulo!”
Joining her will be racing drivers Billy Monger and Catie Munnings, along with sports commentator Tom Brooks.
This season’s pundits will include David Coulthard, Karun Chandhok, Andre Lotterer, James Rossiter, and Alan McNish.
Saunders Carmichael-Brown and Alexa Rendell will continue as pitlane reporters.
Before the London season finale, Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds acknowledged that the transition to pay-per-view had resulted in viewership figures that “did not meet our expectations.”
Last season, Pascal Wehrlein won the championship, narrowly defeating Mitch Evans by just six points.
