Formula E Set for Thrilling Return in Madrid After Month-Long Hiatus
Following an extended break of one month, the all-electric Formula E championship is poised to make a highly anticipated comeback for its sixth round of the season. The action shifts to the vibrant Spanish capital, Madrid, which is preparing to host its inaugural Madrid E-Prix on the historic Circuito del Jarama this coming weekend.
This event marks a significant milestone as the first time the Jarama circuit has been included on the official Formula E racing calendar. While pre-season testing for the current Season 11 (2024/25) was conducted at this venue, its debut as a competitive race location adds a fresh and exciting chapter to the championship's expanding global footprint.
Home Race Excitement Builds Among Formula E Drivers
The local crowd will have a home favorite to cheer for, as Cupra Kiro driver Pepe Martí expressed immense enthusiasm about competing in front of his supporters. Martí, coming off a strong performance in Race 2 at Jeddah, shared his thoughts ahead of the Madrid E-Prix.
"I’m very excited to race at home this weekend. We’re arriving in Madrid following a very robust performance in Jeddah, and within our team, expectations are running exceptionally high. Ideally, we can sustain this upward trajectory of strong performances and results. For me personally, the objective is to secure championship points. I’m thoroughly pleased with how this season is unfolding, and I eagerly anticipate seeing Formula E’s passionate Spanish fanbase. I would absolutely love to reward their unwavering support with a powerful finish," Martí stated.
Meanwhile, the latest Formula E race winner, Jaguar TCS Racing's Antonio Felix da Costa, also feels a strong connection to this event. Although not racing in his native Portugal, Madrid represents the closest he gets to a home race in the series.
"Securing victory in Jeddah was an absolutely incredible moment—it was my first win with Jaguar TCS Racing, and it has provided me with tremendous confidence heading into Madrid. This race feels distinctly different for me. It’s the nearest I’ll come to a home race in Formula E, and having my friends and family in the grandstands will make it even more extraordinary. I’m excited, highly motivated, and fully prepared to fight at the front once again," da Costa remarked.
Unique Features and Historic Venue of the Madrid E-Prix
The 2026 Cupra Raval Madrid E-Prix will introduce an intriguing strategic element with the implementation of the Pit Boost feature, despite being a single-header event. Round 6 will combine Pit Boost with one six-minute Attack Mode activation, creating a dynamic racing environment.
During the race, drivers are required to make a mandatory 30-second pit stop to gain an additional 10% energy boost to their batteries. This innovative rule is anticipated to inject an extra layer of unpredictability and tactical depth into the competition, potentially shaking up the race order and delivering thrilling on-track battles.
The Circuito del Jarama itself is a venue steeped in motorsport history. It previously hosted Formula 1 races from the late 1960s through the end of the 1970s, and has since evolved into a hub for various racing disciplines, including motorcycle racing, sports cars, and even truck racing.
The race will be contested on a 3.934-kilometer circuit that features 14 turns and runs in a clockwise direction. With multiple elevation changes, the track garnered positive feedback from drivers during pre-season testing last year. Interestingly, Formula E had initially planned to conduct testing at Circuit Ricardo Tormo, but flooding in the Valencia region necessitated a last-minute venue change to Jarama.
Following the main Madrid E-Prix, a rookie test is scheduled for the next day, providing emerging talents with a valuable opportunity to showcase their skills on the international stage.
