Disappointment as Formula E Cancels India Race Due to Contract Breach
The anticipated second season of the Formula E India race, scheduled for February 10, has been abruptly canceled, leaving motorsport enthusiasts and fans disheartened. The governing body of the electric racing series cited a “breach of contract” by the Telangana government as the reason for the cancellation.
Formula E co-founder Alberto Longo expressed deep disappointment for the substantial motorsport fanbase in India, recognizing the significance of hosting an official motorsport world championship race. The decision to cancel the race came after the Municipal Administration and Urban Development Department (MAUD) of the Telangana government failed to fulfill the Host City Agreement.
The cancellation has raised concerns among fans and the motorsport community, as it follows the success of the inaugural race held in Hyderabad last year. The Telangana government, under the leadership of IT Minister KT Rama Rao, played a pivotal role in bringing the Formula E event to fruition in India.
However, doubts over the second edition arose when Hyderabad was initially excluded from the provisional 2024 calendar due to reported delays in paying hosting fees. Despite making it onto the final calendar, Formula E officials faced challenges when local supporters Greenko and Ace Nxt Gen withdrew from the event, and the political landscape shifted with the Congress party coming to power.
The cancellation not only impacts the Formula E series but also raises questions about the future of global motorsport events in India. Similar challenges led to the exit of Formula 1 from the country after three races. Formula E, with its emphasis on sustainability and electric vehicles, was seen as a positive step for India’s image on the global stage.
The decision has sparked disappointment among key figures, including Nitish Kumar, former Chief Minister of Bihar, who expressed disappointment over the cancellation and emphasized the need for a separate sports department to support athletes and promote sports in the state.
The Formula E series, which has been an important platform for promoting electric vehicles and sustainable mobility solutions, faces uncertainty regarding its future in India. Discussions between Formula E officials and the Telangana government are yet to yield progress, leaving the motorsport community eagerly awaiting further developments.