Formula E CEO delivers update on Misano's future

Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds has told RacingNews365 that the all-electric series will analyse the success and the "challenges" of the Misano E-Prix over the coming weeks, before deciding if it will become a permanent venue on the calendar.

The Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli is a beautiful track and a stunning location, but whether it is right for Formula E is a huge question. Misano was chosen as Rome's successor, after the Italian capital fell off the calendar.

Previously, Rome was the only place to host a Formula E race in Italy, highlighting the city's longevity on the calendar. Whether Misano will replicate that is currently unknown, with opinions amongst drivers and fans having been mixed after the inaugural race.

An extreme peloton-style of racing was on show on Saturday, before a late dash to the finish line in the closing laps unfolded.

Dodds recognises that some difficulties have been experienced in Misano, particularly for fans trying to reach the venue. On the other hand, the facilities are of the highest class and thrive in areas Rome struggled.

Ultimately, the weekend must be looked back on by Formula E; however, the sport does have other options in Italy if it chose to move away from Misano immedietly.

"There are, of course, other venues in Italy, that could host a race," Dodds told RacingNews365. Misano is not the only game in town, as Rome wasn't. I think Rome had many, many benefits.

"Massive city, heavily tourist city, the drivers love that track. I think there were loads of upsides to Rome. On the other hand, the track was right at the edge of what the cars could perform on, a very expensive place to put on a race.

"And actually, from a facilities point of view, you're dealing with what you've got in the middle of the city centre. Here, purpose-built track, spectacular, lovely region, great weather, beautiful facilities, and welcomed with open arms.

"For getting people here it's tougher, because we're completely out of holiday season. I think if we're right in the middle of holiday season it will be easier. But getting people here is tougher."

No Misano 'call' made

Dodds' plan is to reflect on Misano prior to the Monaco E-Prix in a fortnight, before making a final decision on whether the future of Formula E in Italy is in Misano or elsewhere.

"We will, of course, review over the next week or two, all the good things about Misano and all the challenges of Misano," added Dodds.

"And on the basis of that, we'll take a view on whether it becomes a permanent fixture, or whether it's not the right location for Italy. But we haven't made that call."

After Saturday's inaugural race, comparisons were made in a flash to last year's race in Portland, where a record-breaking 403 overtakes were witnessed. Several of the overtakes were once again made purely in a bid to preserve energy, rather than for the outright position.

The peloton-style is very different to traditional motor racing and Dodds admits Formula E cannot have a season full of this sort of spectacle; however, he is in favour of it happening occasionally.

"I don't think you could have 18 of these races a year," conceded Dodds. "I think I'm not sure any of us could cope with 18 of these races a year.

"On the other hand, I think having a couple of races that are very different is okay."