Formula E has announced that the third instalment of its Tokyo E-Prix double-header will be for the first time a nighttime event.
The all-electric championship has confirmed that the street circuit in the Japanese capital will now be an ‘under the lights’ event, increasing the uniqueness of what was already a distinctive event in the world of motorsport.
Hosting a night race at the circuit, which takes in the Big Sight convention centre as well as Tokyo Bay waterfront, was a long-held ambition for the championship, and therefore the series’ top brass will no doubt be delighted at securing the change.
In keeping with Formula E’s Net Zero credentials, the event will be “powered entirely – including the trackside lighting infrastructure – by sustainable energy, sourced from advanced biofuels.”
Yuriko Koike, the Governer of Tokyo, said he was “confident that the 2026 Tokyo E-Prix will not only accelerate the spread of zero emission vehicles and initiatives for the realization of a sustainable world but will also add more brilliance to Tokyo’s nights.
“The race will be held on the two days of July 25 and 26. Let’s all cheer on a race that may be even hotter than the summer heat.
“Tokyo will join forces with the organisers and others related to the race to ensure its success.”
FE’s co-founder and Chief Championship Officer, Alberto Longo, said: “Hosting a Formula E night race event in Tokyo is a massive milestone.
“This is a city that is committed to our vision to accelerate change towards an electric future, and we thank Governor Koike and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government for their partnership.
“We are delighted to play a part in re-energising Tokyo’s incredible nightlife scene and bringing exciting racing to the streets of the capital.
“To see the world’s most innovative electric race cars – the GEN3 Evo – competing under the dramatic lights of the Tokyo Bay waterfront will be an unforgettable moment for our passionate Japanese fans and those watching on at home.”
The change to a night race will no doubt be a huge boost to the race’s credentials, as there is some uncertainty that the event will be a viable option in the upcoming Gen4 era, due to its narrow profile.
Motorsport Week understands that talks are ongoing to ensure a revision of the circuit to help guarantee a long-term future for the race.
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