Disney+ Grabs Global Rights to Formula E Racing Events
Disney+ has secured global streaming rights to the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship in more than 140 territories, a landmark deal that brings uniform coverage to the electric racing series worldwide. In the United States, races will instead air on ESPN+ (now branded ESPN Select), while Disney's arrangement allows Formula E to retain its existing local broadcast television partnerships in key markets, an outcome the league's leadership has welcomed as ideal for its continued growth.
The agreement arrives as Formula E, which launched in 2014 and operates separately from Formula 1, prepares to introduce its next-generation GEN4 car, boasting 600 kilowatts (roughly 815 horsepower) and a 0-60mph time of about 1.8 seconds, some 30% quicker than an F1 car. The 2026-27 season will feature 21 races across 13 locations, opening in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on 18-19 December and concluding in Tokyo the following July. Formula E executives, including chief executive Jeff Dodds and chief media officer Michaella Snoeck, framed the deal as a way to expand the sport's global reach while preserving local TV ties, and Disney's interest reflects the broader industry trend of streamers chasing live sport to retain subscribers.
- Disney+ secures global Formula E streaming rights across 140+ territories
- US races remain on ESPN+/ESPN Select under separate arrangement
- Deal coincides with launch of faster new GEN4 electric race car