ABB FIA Formula E in Madrid Hosts a Royal Visit at Inaugural Race, Welcoming His Majesty King Felipe VI
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide, welcomed His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain to Madrid’s inaugural hosting of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.
King Felipe VI’s presence highlighted the growing importance of sustainable motorsport and Spain’s role in embracing innovative, electric racing technologies. The event marks a historic milestone for a championship that is currently in its twelfth season, and which since its inception has had innovation embedded in its DNA.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: “It was an honour for the FIA to welcome His Majesty King Felipe VI to the Circuito de Madrid-Jarama for the city’s inaugural ABB FIA Formula E World Championship race. This landmark event reflects the growing global appeal of electric racing and underscores our shared commitment to sustainability, innovation, and cutting-edge motorsport.
“Madrid has embraced Formula E with great enthusiasm, and hosting the championship here for the first time allows us to showcase the excitement of electric racing while promoting cleaner mobility solutions. We are thrilled to bring fans from around the world to the Spanish capital and inspire the next generation of motorsport enthusiasts and innovators.”
Carmelo Sanz de Barros, President of the FIA Senate and President of the Royal Automobile Club of Spain (RACE), said: “Bringing Formula E to Madrid for the first time is a historic moment for our city and for Spanish motorsport. The CUPRA Raval Madrid E-Prix showcases not only racing at the highest level but also the importance of sustainable mobility. We are proud to have welcomed His Majesty King Felipe VI to experience this unique event, which celebrates innovation, excitement, and Spain’s commitment to a greener future in motorsport.”
The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship stands at the forefront of sustainable innovation in global sport, combining high-performance racing with a clear purpose: to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable future. Since it began, the championship has served as a platform for cutting-edge electric vehicle technology, driving advancements in energy efficiency, battery development and urban mobility solutions. Formula E not only brings world-class motorsport to fans but also demonstrates how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand, supporting the FIA’s commitment to reducing environmental impact while inspiring the next generation of mobility.
The Championship will continue for Rounds 7 & 8 in Berlin from the 2nd May 2026.
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About the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) is the governing body for world motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations globally. It is a non-profit organisation committed to driving innovation and championing safety, sustainability and equality across motor sport and mobility.
Founded in 1904, with offices in Paris, London and Geneva, the FIA brings together 245 Member Organisations across five continents, representing millions of road users, motor sport professionals and volunteers. It develops and enforces regulations for motor sport, including six FIA World Championships, to ensure worldwide competitions are safe and fair for all.
