Disney+ Secures Global Streaming Rights for Formula E Racing
In a major shift for motorsport broadcasting, Disney+ has officially acquired the global streaming rights for the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. Starting with the 2026/27 season, the platform will become the primary destination for fans to watch these high-speed electric vehicle races across more than 140 territories worldwide. While Disney+ will serve as the central hub, the agreement maintains provisions for local broadcast partnerships in specific regions to ensure wider accessibility. In the United States, audiences will be able to access the high-octane racing content through both the Disney+ platform and ESPN+.
- Disney+ has obtained the exclusive global streaming rights for the Formula E World Championship beginning in the 2026/27 season.
- The broadcasting deal covers more than 140 territories and allows for simultaneous coverage on ESPN+ in the United States.
- This strategic transition marks the conclusion of the previous broadcasting partnership between Formula E and Roku.
The New Broadcasting Era Begins in 2026
The transition to Disney+ is scheduled to take effect with the commencement of the 2026/27 racing calendar. This upcoming season is set to feature a robust lineup of 13 unique events, encompassing a total of 21 individual rounds of competition. The season will kick off on December 18 in Saudi Arabia, marking the start of a new chapter for the electric racing series.
The inclusion of iconic racing locations like Miami, Monaco, and Mexico City highlights the global expansion of this electric championship.
The Streaming Landscape Changes Significantly
The move to Disney+ signifies a major pivot in the series’ media strategy, effectively ending its previous tenure with Roku. The partnership with Roku had included the production of exclusive documentary content intended to boost the visibility of the sport. As the series moves to Disney’s ecosystem, stakeholders are closely watching how this change will influence fan engagement and overall viewership metrics.
This development comes at a time when other major racing series are re-evaluating their own distribution models. For instance, Formula 1 has recently navigated its own shifts in broadcasting rights, choosing to prioritize its relationship with ESPN while exploring new digital avenues for its massive international audience. The departure from the Roku model suggests that Formula E is seeking a more integrated digital environment to foster its long-term growth.
The Future of Electric Racing Remains Bright
Since its inception in 2014, Formula E has steadily increased its footprint in the professional sports world. By leveraging the vast reach of Disney+, the series aims to introduce its brand of sustainable, high-speed competition to a broader demographic. The commitment to racing in major global cities remains a cornerstone of the sport’s identity, providing a unique spectacle that combines engineering innovation with intense athletic performance.
We are eager to hear your thoughts on this major broadcast shift; do you believe moving to Disney+ will enhance the viewing experience for Formula E fans?
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