Formula E is set to kick off its 11th season with the S\u00e3o Paulo E-Prix, marking the official start of the electric championship.<\/p>\n
Following the pre-season tests held in Madrid this past October<\/a>, the Brazilian city will host the first round of this brand-new season.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s everything you need to know about the opening event of the 2024\/2025 Formula E<\/a> season in S\u00e3o Paulo.<\/p>\n The S\u00e3o Paulo circuit, also known as the Anhembi Sambadrome Circuit, is one of the most fascinating and challenging tracks on the Formula E calendar.<\/p>\n Located in the heart of the Brazilian metropolis, the 2.933 km circuit features 11 corners, combining technical sections with high-speed straights. Drivers will complete 31 laps, covering a total distance of 90.923 km.<\/p>\n The track layout is designed to showcase the capabilities of the Gen3 Evo cars, making their official debut this season.<\/p>\n The race begins within the iconic Sambadrome, a symbol of the city, and continues through a series of tight turns and technical chicanes that demand precision driving. Meanwhile, the straights offer opportunities for overtaking, encouraging aggressive strategies.<\/p>\n One of the circuit\u2019s unique characteristics is its uneven asphalt surface, which challenges grip, especially in low-speed corners. Additionally, the high temperatures typical of Brazil’s climate add an extra layer of complexity in managing energy and tyre wear.<\/p>\n Last season, Sam Bird secured NEOM McLaren\u2019s first Formula E victory<\/a> at this track, narrowly beating Mitch Evans in a thrilling finish that saw Bird overtake Evans in the penultimate corner of the final lap.<\/p>\n READ MORE<\/strong>: Formula E: Could Porsche Contend for Victory at the 2024 S\u00e3o Paulo E-Prix?<\/a><\/p>\n With the introduction of the Gen3 Evo cars<\/a> – an evolution of the Gen3 models – Season 11 brings some technical uncertainties. However, the pre-season tests in Madrid provided valuable insights into the key contenders.<\/p>\n The rivalry between Porsche and Jaguar powertrains seems poised to continue. Mitch Evans<\/a> and Nick Cassidy (Jaguar TCS Racing) showcased impressive pace during testing, reaffirming the strength of Jaguar\u2019s powertrain.<\/p>\n On the other hand, Pascal Wehrlein (TAG Heuer Porsche) and Jake Dennis (Andretti) remain strong contenders, backed by competitive packages that have already delivered success in previous seasons.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, Kiro Race Co. (now Cupra Kiro) recently announced their 2024\/2025 lineup, featuring returning driver Dan Ticktum and Porsche\u2019s third driver, David Beckmann.<\/p>\n As always, energy management and strategy will be crucial, particularly on a circuit like S\u00e3o Paulo, where long straights and frequent braking zones heavily influence energy consumption.<\/p>\n Unexpected challenges are always around the corner, and adverse weather with heavy downpours over the Brazilian skies brings uncertainty about whether the race can go ahead.<\/p>\n For now, conditions seem to have stabilized, but drivers remain sceptical. If the rain continues, the season opener could be at risk. Among those on-site, the concern revolves around Hankook’s new softer tyres for Season 11.<\/p>\n Jaguar TCS Racing\u2019s Mitch Evans described driving on the new tyres in wet conditions as \u201ca shock\u201d during pre-season testing, explaining that the smooth surface of S\u00e3o Paulo\u2019s main straight exacerbates the issue.<\/p>\n With a significant shower already hitting the circuit on Thursday evening, water pooled in critical areas, raising further doubts about the feasibility of Saturday\u2019s race if the forecasted rain continues.<\/p>\n As the drivers prepare for the unexpected, all eyes are on Hankook for solutions, but for now, the S\u00e3o Paulo E-Prix remains at risk.<\/p>\n YOU MAY ASLO LIKE<\/strong>: Abu Dhabi Showdown: Can Pulling Reclaim Her Crown in the F1 Academy Finale?<\/a><\/p>\n For UK and Irish fans, Formula E has secured a new free-to-air broadcast deal with ITV. All 16 E-Prix and their qualifying sessions in Season 11 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship will be shown live on ITV4 and ITVX<\/a>.<\/p>\n Additionally, ITV4 will broadcast nine races live and air a dedicated highlights show following each race weekend. Fans can also stream all 16 races live, starting with the S\u00e3o Paulo E-Prix on December 7, on ITVX\u2019s free-to-air streaming platform.<\/p>\n The S\u00e3o Paulo E-Prix will take place at the following times in the UK (GMT):<\/p>\n Friday, December 6<\/strong><\/p>\n Saturday, December 7<\/strong><\/p>\n Don’t miss it \ud83e\udd29<\/p>\n Here are all the ways to watch the first race of the season in your area. Head to our website to find out more \ud83d\udc47<\/p>\n \u2014 Formula E (@FIAFormulaE) December 5, 2024<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\nThe S\u00e3o Paulo E-Prix Circuit: the insights<\/h2>\n
Who Are the Favorites for Season 11?<\/h4>\n
Wet Weather Threatens S\u00e3o Paulo E-Prix<\/h4>\n
S\u00e3o Paulo E-Prix Schedule<\/h4>\n
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