Formula E release statement as FIA confirm several major changes

Formula E has released multiple statements following the approval of several changes, in Thursday afternoon's meeting of the FIA World Motor Sport Council. 

Starting with Formula E's calendar, a return to Sanya has been confirmed, while Jakarta will not host an E-Prix after talks fell through.

It means the upcoming season which gets underway in São Paulo on December 6 will consist of 17 rounds, rather than the intended 18 – this is still a Formula E record for most races in a campaign.

Regarding Jakarta's absence, a Formula E spokesperson said: "As with last year and previous editions of the Jakarta E-Prix, we have worked closely with the Jakarta government.

"The 2025 race was the final event under our current agreement, and although we reached an understanding to extend into Season 12 and beyond, the confirmation process did not meet the timelines necessary for announcement.

"That said, the door remains open for Formula E to return to Jakarta in the future. In the meantime, we are excited to deliver a record-breaking 2025/26 season. Season 12 will feature Formula E’s largest and most expansive calendar to date - 17 races across 11 iconic cities. 

"Fans can look forward to a mix of long-standing favourites and exciting new venues, including Madrid, Miami International Autodrome located at the Hard Rock Stadium, and Sanya.

"Formula E’s record-breaking 12th season begins on December 6, 2025, on the vibrant streets of São Paulo, before the championship returns to Mexico City in January."

In addition to Sanya's confirmation and Jakarta's absence, it has been revealed that the Miami International Autodrome will host an additional rookie practice session, with the Jarama Circuit in Madrid to host the annual day-long rookie test.

Other confirmed changes

It was not only changes to the calendar which were announced by the FIA, with changes to Formula E's format and its cost cap also revealed. 

For the upcoming season, the group stage of qualifying has been reduced from 12 to 10 minutes, while the gap between the various knockout stages having also been reduced. 

Race format changes have also been announced, with races which feature Pit Boost to now have the option of featuring only one activation of Attack Mode, rather than two. Non-Pit Boost races will remain the same.

Finally, a crucial change has been made to the cost cap in Formula E, with ,maternity and paternity pay to no longer be included. It is part of the championship's increasing efforts to inclusivity. 

"Season 12 marks another important evolution for the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship - from the return to Sanya strengthening our presence in China, to sporting and financial regulation updates that enhance competition and reinforce our commitment to inclusion and equality," said Alberto Longo, Formula E co-founder.

"The introduction of maternity and parental pay exclusions from the cost cap is a milestone for Formula E, ensuring that teams can fully support their people through key life moments without compromise. 

"At the same time, updates to our sporting format and the continued expansion of our calendar reflect Formula E’s mission to deliver the most exciting, progressive racing season yet.”