Formula E has been striving for nearly ten years to hold a race in Tokyo. In just seven weeks, what was once deemed impossible – racing on the streets of the world’s largest city – will become a reality. It has been a challenging journey to make this event happen. The first demonstration run on the streets took place in 2016. Now, after eight years, the first-ever international motorsport event will take place in Tokyo. The buzz in the paddock has been palpable since the Mexico City season opener last month. The disappointment of a late race cancellation, a recurring issue in the Formula E calendar, has only heightened the excitement surrounding the Tokyo E-Prix. This inaugural race, scheduled for March 30, holds significant importance and is considered one of the most crucial races in the championship’s history.
The process of bringing the Tokyo E-Prix to fruition gained momentum when Yuriko Koike became the Tokyo governor in 2016. Coinciding with the Ecology Mobility Fair in the Marunouchi business district, a demonstration run by Lucas di Grassi in a Formula E car made perfect sense. Initial discussions began, but the conservative bureaucracy of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government made it clear that progress would be slow. When the COVID pandemic struck in 2020, and the Tokyo Olympic Games faced delays and financial challenges, it seemed unlikely that a street race would materialize. However, Formula E quietly made significant progress with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. By June 2023, a race was confirmed, and a three-season deal starting in 2024 was agreed upon.
Koike’s influence played a crucial role in securing the race. Her commitment to environmental politics, demonstrated through initiatives like endorsing the use of Furoshiki cloth instead of plastic bags, aligned with Formula E’s mission. Another factor that worked in favor of the race was its inclusion in a large-scale Zero Emissions Vehicle event in the Ariake district of Tokyo. This event will showcase sustainable mobility, attracting exhibitors, speakers, and guests. For Formula E manufacturers, this opportunity provides vital exposure and marketing in progressive global centers.
The circuit for the Tokyo E-Prix will utilize public and private roads in and around the ‘Big Sight’ exhibition area in Ariake. The renowned Tilke Group, responsible for designing famous racetracks worldwide, collaborated with stakeholders to shape the 1.5-mile track. Gemma Roura, an integral part of Formula E Operations, has been overseeing the event management in Tokyo since 2023.
The location of the race offers a stunning backdrop, with the Big Sight exhibition center being twice as big as London ExCeL. The presence of water on one side and the monorail running through the area adds to the urban atmosphere captured by TV shots. The track features sea elements, with the Bay of Tokyo and cities of Chiba and Kawasaki in view. The sweeping Turn 9 and the transition from the sinuous first sector to the faster middle and final sectors promise an exciting race. The track surface is described as excellent, providing opportunities for overtaking into Turn 1.
Preparatory civil engineering work has already taken place in the Big Sight area to ensure sustainability. Formula E aims to establish a long-term presence at the venue beyond the initial three-year agreement. The zero-emission vehicle policy championed by Governor Koike has been instrumental in bringing the race to fruition. Tokyo, with its blend of dinge and neon reminiscent of Blade Runner, offers a unique backdrop for Formula E. While a night race was considered, the additional costs prevented its inclusion in the inaugural event. However, Formula E remains open to the possibility in the future.
The inaugural race is expected to attract a modest crowd, with 8,500 grandstand tickets available. However, the concurrent Zero Emissions Vehicle event, supported by the government, is projected to draw over 20,000 people to the circuit. Formula E plans to scale up the event in the following years, capitalizing on the demand for motorsport in Japan. The country’s growing EV marketplace, with an increase of nearly 50% in electric vehicle sales in 2023, further supports the timing of the Tokyo E-Prix.
Now, it is up to the manufacturers, organizers, and the Tokyo public to embrace and leverage this opportune platform in world motorsport.
According to the Source the-race.com