A new FIA Formula E support series, the NXT Gen Cup, has had its inaugural 2024 season scrapped, just days before its opening round at Misano.
The series, slated to kick off in Italy this weekend, was planned as a support category at the remaining European events on the Season 10 Formula E calendar.
Featuring electric Mini Coopers for male and female drivers aged 15-25, the NXT Gen Cup would have been the first Formula E support series since the Jaguar I-Pace eTrophy dropped off of the calendar in 2020 thanks to the Covid pandemic.
However, NXT Gen Cup revealed on Monday that the “organisation has started work on a new calendar as it parts ways with the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship for the 2024 season.”
The organisation cited “unexpected constraints in getting the junior series ready for the joint race weekends with Formula E,” as the reason for pulling out at this late stage.
“We are obviously disappointed that we could not get this together for 2024 and that the decision came so late, said NXT Gen Cup Founder, Fredrik Lestrup.
“We have been in touch with all of our drivers and partners who obviously share our feelings, but who also have shown incredible understanding and support in this difficult situation – something we are hugely grateful for.
“Our main priority now is to find a sustainable new solution for our drivers as soon as possible and our ambition is still to return with the FIA Formula E World Championship in 2025.
“Our work is now fully focussed on securing a new 2024 calendar and we have a positive dialogue with DTM, ADAC and others. We will return with further news soon.”
Responding to NXT Gen Cup’s announcement, an FE Spokesperson said: “NXT GEN’s participation at the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship has been cancelled for Season 10 due to unexpected constraints faced by the support series.
“Formula E has already begun implementing positive adjustments to ensure the continuity and success of upcoming events, beginning with a revised schedule for the Misano E-Prix to ensure minimal disruption to fans and expanded activities that include: pit-lane autograph sessions, additional pit walks, and expanded promotional track activities.
“Formula E remains committed to nurturing the next generation of talent through FIA Girls on Track and other impactful initiatives for young people.”
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