Tokyo E-Prix Set for Spectacular Night Race Debut in 2026
In a groundbreaking announcement on Thursday, Formula E, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, and the FIA revealed that the 2026 Tokyo E-Prix will be held as a night race. This exciting news came just hours before the start of Formula E Season 12's first night race double-header weekend in Jeddah, setting the stage for a thrilling evolution in electric motorsport.
Historic Shift to Night Racing
The 2026 Tokyo E-Prix will mark the first time that the advanced GEN3 Evo cars race on the streets of Japan after sunset. Scheduled for Saturday, July 25, and Sunday, July 26, this event represents the third consecutive year of the Tokyo E-Prix double-header, building on its successful debut in 2024 and expansion in 2025.
Rounds 14 and 15 are set to commence at 8 p.m. local time, transforming the Tokyo Bay waterfront into a dazzling spectacle. The race will take place around the Tokyo Big Sight convention center, promising an unforgettable experience for spectators and viewers worldwide.
Driving Sustainability and Climate Action
This night race is not just about high-speed competition; it underscores a deep commitment to environmental sustainability. The partnership between Formula E and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government aligns with their shared agenda to promote Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs) and accelerate Tokyo's climate action plan, which aims for net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050.
Innovatively, the entire event will be powered by sustainable energy sources. Even the trackside lighting infrastructure will utilize advanced biofuels, ensuring that the race minimizes its carbon footprint while showcasing cutting-edge green technology.
Celebrating Japanese Success and Global Impact
The Tokyo E-Prix has quickly become a landmark in Japan's motorsport history. The inaugural race in 2024 introduced electric race cars to Japanese streets, while the 2025 double-header saw Nissan achieve significant success on home soil, with driver Oliver Rowland winning Round 9 and securing the 2024/25 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship title.
Yuriko Koike, Governor of Tokyo, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "The 2026 Tokyo E-Prix will be a night race to showcase Tokyo's fascinating nightlife to the world. I am confident it will accelerate zero-emission vehicle adoption and add brilliance to Tokyo's nights." She emphasized the race's role in drawing spectators captivated by EV excellence and thrilling racing.
Global Recognition and Future Prospects
Formula E Co-Founder and Chief Championship Officer Alberto Longo thanked Japanese authorities for their support, highlighting Tokyo's commitment to an electric future. "Hosting a Formula E night race in Tokyo is a massive milestone," he said. "Seeing the GEN3 Evo cars under the lights of Tokyo Bay will be unforgettable for fans."
This announcement adds to the excitement of Formula E Season 12, which features 17 races across 11 global cities. Currently, the Jeddah E-Prix double-header is underway, further cementing Formula E's position as a leader in sustainable motorsport.
Key Highlights of the 2026 Tokyo E-Prix Night Race:
- First night race for GEN3 Evo cars in Japan.
- Double-header event on July 25-26, 2026.
- Races start at 8 p.m. local time around Tokyo Big Sight.
- Fully powered by sustainable energy and biofuels.
- Aims to boost EV adoption and support Tokyo's 2050 net-zero goal.
