Formula E Moves to Disney+, ESPN+ for Global Broadcasts

Formula E has secured a significant broadcast deal, moving its coverage to Disney+ and ESPN+ across 144 countries starting with its twelfth season in December. This multiyear agreement will provide live broadcasts of every ePrix, encompassing practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and the main races. In the United States, Formula E will transition from Roku, which had been its live broadcast platform since 2023, to ESPN+ for the upcoming season. This strategic shift aims to leverage Disney's extensive global reach and storytelling capabilities to introduce the sport to a wider audience and foster global growth. Formula E's CEO, Jeff Dodds, described the deal as a "landmark moment" that reflects the "incredible momentum" behind the championship. He further stated that Disney's platform will "introduce Formula E to millions of new fans while bringing them closer than ever to the drama, innovation, and excitement of electric racing." Dodds emphasized that this partnership provides an "exceptional platform to accelerate our global growth and continue building one of the world’s most exciting sports properties" as the sport enters its GEN4 era. Despite the global expansion, the move to ESPN+ in the US may result in a reduction in viewership compared to its previous platform. As of April this year, over 100 million US households subscribed to Roku. In contrast, ESPN+ has experienced subscriber losses since its peak at the end of 2023 and currently serves approximately 24 million US households. This new media rights agreement represents a pivotal moment for Formula E, signaling its ambition for increased international presence and fan engagement through a partnership with a major global media conglomerate. The transition to Disney+ and ESPN+ is expected to enhance the sport's visibility and accessibility, particularly in regions where these streaming services have a strong subscriber base. The deal underscores the growing appeal of electric motorsport and Formula E's strategic efforts to capitalize on this trend by partnering with platforms that offer broad reach and sophisticated content delivery. The inclusion of comprehensive live coverage from practice to the race finish ensures that dedicated fans will have access to all aspects of the competition, further deepening their connection to the sport. The move also aligns with the broader trend of sports properties seeking direct-to-consumer streaming options to reach younger demographics and expand their global footprint beyond traditional linear television. Formula E's commitment to innovation in electric racing, coupled with this new broadcast strategy, positions the sport for continued evolution and expansion in the coming years.