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Electric open wheel series Formula E has signed a five-year contract with São Paulo, alongside São Paulo Turismo (SPTuris) and GL Events, to host a race at the Anhembi Sambadrome from the 2022/23 season.
The five-year agreement has the option of renewal, and it will coincide with the beginning of Formula E’s new regulations.
SPTuris stated in a post on Instagram that the race would be held at the Anhembi Sambadrome, the same location IndyCar used between 2010 and 2013.
“We are delighted that the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship will be heading to Brazil for the very first time pending approval at the FIA World Motor Sport Council in June,” says Formula E co-founder and chief championship officer, Alberto Longo.
“The country has a huge, long-standing passion for motorsport, it’s a big market as one of the largest countries in the world, and São Paulo itself is a historic race location.
“We can’t wait to welcome the Brazilian fans, they are like no other and there is sure to be a lively, unique atmosphere as the fans enjoy Formula E racing with the leap forward in technology and performance we are going to see with Gen3.”
Ricardo Nunes, mayor of São Paulo, added: “Hosting an E-Prix is completely lined up with the city objectives: to attract events that promote São Paulo’s image to the whole world, to move the economy and create jobs with events tourism; furthermore, to foment sustainable development.”
The news was welcomed by Brazilian Formula E driver Lucas di Grassi, who said: “The news of São Paulo hosting the next generation of Formula E is music to my ears.
“Not only does this milestone signify the return of the pinnacle of electric motorsport to South America but it's an important step towards the electrification of the Brazilian automotive market.
“On a personal note, there is nothing like the pride and incredible energy of the Brazilian racing fans so it would be a dream come true for me to race in this game-changing championship in front of a home crowd."