Why are Tom Brady, Rafael Nadal, and Will Smith all getting into this sport? Here are the reasons that make this event unique and spectacular

The boats literally fly over the water

That’s undoubtedly what surprises people the most when they experience the E1 for the first time.
Here, there are no traditional outboard motors or big waves trailing behind the competitors. The boats used, called RaceBirds, are equipped with foils—hydrodynamic wings that allow them to rise above the water’s surface as soon as they pick up speed. The result is spectacular. The boats seem to literally float in the air while skimming the water, sometimes giving the impression of watching a futuristic race straight out of a science-fiction movie.

A championship that also aims to drive progress

Behind the spectacle, the E1 also has an environmental mission. The organizers present the championship as a testing ground for developing new technologies related to electric mobility on the water. Each race is also accompanied by local initiatives focused on preserving marine and coastal ecosystems.

A unique gender parity in motorsports

The E1 Series has also chosen to break with certain conventions in motorsports and sailing.
Each team must field two drivers: one man and one woman. And most importantly, both drivers get exactly the same amount of driving time during the competition. In a world where mixed-gender competitions are still rare at this level, this rule stands out as an exception. It puts the drivers on an equal footing and is now one of the cornerstones of the championship.

An atmosphere that feels more like a festival than a simple competition

On-site, the experience goes far beyond the race itself. Fan zones, entertainment, concerts, high-profile guests, and meet-and-greets with the teams: every Grand Prix turns into a major event for the host city. The atmosphere is at once athletic, festive, and accessible, with a level of closeness between the public and the championship’s participants that’s quite rare. This is likely one of the reasons behind celebrities’ growing interest in the sport: E1 doesn’t just organize races—it creates a true gathering centered around the water.

The races take place in some of the world’s most beautiful settings

Finally, it’s hard not to mention the locations chosen to host the championship rounds.
Last spring, Lake Como provided an absolutely exceptional setting for RaceBirds, surrounded by mountains, historic villas, and crystal-clear waters. But the championship’s philosophy is based precisely on this idea: combining sports, innovation, and iconic destinations.

And the best is yet to come: the next round will take place very soon in Monaco, one of the most prestigious venues in the world of sports. Between the harbor, the yachts, and the Principality’s backdrop, the spectacle already promises to be spectacular. If you’re curious to discover what increasingly looks like the future of water racing, now might be the time to check it out. You’ve been warned!