Formula E Returns to Free-to-Air TV with a New Hosting Team: A Major Broadcasting Change
FORMULA E has announced a major change in its broadcasting strategy by bringing back free-to-air television.
The racing series was previously aired on platforms like BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Channel 5 but recently transitioned to a paywall with TNT Sports, marking a first in its decade-long history.
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It has now been confirmed that the series will return to ITV for the 2024/25 season, featuring live broadcasts and highlights 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, expressed excitement: “We’re thrilled to provide fans in the UK and Ireland with enhanced access to our exhilarating championship through our esteemed media partners – TNT Sports and ITV – presenting multiple avenues for engaging with the sport.
“Our new highlights program after each race weekend on ITV will showcase exclusive content from the paddock, enhancing the viewer experience for both new and veteran fans.
“We are eager to deliver even more exciting on-track action while broadening the sport’s audience.”
This broadcasting change will also welcome a new presenting team, with former BBC figure Jermaine Jenas stepping away from the all-electric racing series.
Returning is the innovative presenter Nicki Shields, who will break ground as the first female lead in the series.
Since her debut in 2014, she has become a key figure both on and off the track, famously serving as the first female lead commentator for the F1 Academy during its recent launch.
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Reflecting on her new position, Shields shared: “I vividly recall my first Formula E race in Beijing back in 2014, and my passion for this sport remains as strong as ever, even a decade later.
“I’m excited to return as the lead presenter for Season 11. It’s a great honor to share the thrill and intensity of this incredible sport with fans around the world.
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“With our talented presenting team, we are committed to bringing audiences closer to the action than ever before. Let’s get ready for São Paulo!”
She will be joined by racing drivers Billy Monger and Catie Munnings, along with sports commentator Tom Brooks.
Pundits for the season will include David Coulthard, Karun Chandhok, Andre Lotterer, James Rossiter, and Alan McNish.
Saunders Carmichael-Brown and Alexa Rendell will continue their roles as pitlane reporters.
Before the London season finale, Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds recognized that the shift to pay-per-view had led to viewership figures that “did not meet our expectations.”
Last season, Pascal Wehrlein was crowned champion, narrowly clinching the title over Mitch Evans by just six points.
