Edited by Deepali Verma
In an announcement, Formula E gave an update to the Season 10 calendar with the cancellation of the Hyderabad E-Prix Round 4, scheduled for February 10.
“The cancellation comes after a decision by the Municipal Administration and Urban Development Department (MAUD), functioning under the control of the Government of Telangana, failed to fulfil the Host City Agreement signed on 30 October 2023,” ABB FIA Formula E informed in an official statement.
“Formula E Operations (FEO) has no choice but to formally give notice to MAUD that it currently stands in breach of contract. FEO is considering its stance and what steps they may take under the Host City Agreement and applicable laws. All of FEO’s rights in that regard stand reserved.”
The only official FIA World Championship event in Bharat in 2024 could have been the Hyderabad E-Prix. It was a part of a multi-year agreement between Formula E and the Government of Telangana.
Rest of the confirmed host cities on the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship calendar for Season 10 are namely Tokyo, Shanghai, Berlin, Monaco and London. The season will commence from next Saturday, 13 January, with the Hankook Mexico City E-Prix.
“We are aware that hosting an official motorsport world championship race is a significant and a prestigious occasion for Hyderabad and the whole country. The President of the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI), Akbar Ebrahim, and his team have put forth incredible support in bringing Formula E back to Hyderabad. There is shared disappointment in the decision of the Government of Telangana which means that will not happen,” Alberto Longo, Co-Founder and Chief Championship Officer, Formula E remarked in an official statement.
“It is deeply upsetting that we could not replicate the success of the inaugural race held last year, which delivered close to 84m USD in positive economic impact to the region. We are further disappointed in our major Indian partners, especially Mahindra and Tata Communications. Racing in Hyderabad holds significance in showcasing the benefits of adopting electric vehicles in a market where pollution from vehicle engines has a massive impact on public health and the environment,” Jeff Dodds, CEO, Formula E, said.
