In a stunning turn of events, the eagerly anticipated 2024 Hyderabad E-Prix, a jewel in the crown of Season 10, faces cancellation amid swirling political turmoil and contractual disputes, shaking the foundations of India’s motorsport landscape.
The series officials today confirmed that they have officially scrapped the Hyderabad E-Prix, slated as the fourth event in Season 10.
Speculation surfaced last week suggesting the race faced uncertainty following recent political shifts.
These speculations have now crystallized into fact. The Municipal Administration and Urban Development Department (MAUD), governed by the Telangana Government, has opted not to honor the Host City Agreement it entered into on 30 October 2023, according to a statement from Formula E.
In response, Formula E Operations (FEO) has officially notified MAUD of its contractual breach and is presently deliberating its forthcoming strategy concerning the Host City Agreement and “relevant laws.”
2024 Hyderabad E-Prix Axed, India Loses FIA Spot
The organizers have cancelled the 2024 Hyderabad E-Prix, set to be its second showing after last year’s inaugural race, removing any FIA World Championship events from India’s calendar.
Alberto Longo, Formula E’s Co-Founder and Chief Championship Officer, expressed profound regret for India’s vast motorsport enthusiasts. “Hosting an official world championship race is a momentous and esteemed event for both Hyderabad and the entire nation,” he remarked.
He also acknowledged the President of the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI), Akbar Ebrahim, and his team for their exceptional support in the efforts to return Formula E to Hyderabad.
“They echo our sentiment of dismay at Telangana Government’s decision, effectively preventing the event,” he added.
Jeff Dodds, CEO of Formula E, expressed his frustration: “The inability to capitalize on the success of last year’s first race, which brought nearly 84 million USD in economic benefits to the area, is deeply disappointing.”
He continued, highlighting the letdown for prominent Indian partners like Mahindra and Tata Communications. “Racing in Hyderabad was crucial to demonstrate the advantages of adopting electric vehicles in a country where vehicular pollution significantly affects public health and the environment.”
The 2024 Hyderabad E-Prix, initially scheduled for Saturday, February 10, has no prospective replacement, resulting in a seven-week hiatus between the Diriyah and Sao Paulo rounds.
The 2024 Formula E season will see the cancellation of the Hyderabad E-Prix. This decision comes as a surprise to many fans and stakeholders. The Formula E calendar for the upcoming season will undergo some significant changes. Hyderabad E-Prix to Be Cancelled
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