The 2024 Hyderabad E-Prix has officially been cancelled, Formula E has confirmed. The race was originally scheduled to be held on February 10, but as reported last week, concerns emerged after the recent state assembly elections in Telangana.
- Hyderabad E-Prix was scheduled for February 10, 2024
- Race won’t be replaced
- Seven week gap between Diriyah and Sao Paulo races
Formula E has suggested that it is looking at pursuing action for a breach of contract. “The cancellation comes following a decision by the Municipal Administration and Urban Development Department (MAUD), under the control of the Government of Telangana, not to fulfil the Host City Agreement signed on October 30, 2023,” reads an official statement shared by the all-electric racing championship.
“Formula E Operations (FEO) has been left with no choice other than to formally give notice to MAUD that it is in breach of contract. FEO is considering its position and what steps it may take under the Host City Agreement and applicable laws. All of FEO’s rights in that regard are reserved.”
The inaugural Hyderabad E-Prix was held on the streets alongside Hussain Sagar Lake earlier last year, with an attendance of roughly 31,000. While the drivers were impressed with the track itself, there were a number of operational and infrastructural issues.
There were some doubts surrounding the return of the event, especially since the organising team behind the race was disbanded in August. However, the Hyderabad E-Prix was confirmed as part of the 2024 Formula E calendar in October. Since then, the city has seen a change in governance, with the Congress taking command in Telangana.
“We are extremely disappointed for the huge motorsport fanbase in India. We know that hosting an official motorsport world championship race is an important and prestigious occasion for Hyderabad and the whole country. The President of the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI), Akbar Ebrahim, and his team have been incredibly supportive in bringing Formula E back to Hyderabad. They share our disappointment in the decision of the Government of Telangana,” said Alberto Longo, co-founder and chief championship officer, Formula E.
The cancellation of the Hyderabad E-Prix leaves Formula E with a shortened 15-race calendar for 2024. The event is unlikely to be replaced, resulting in a gap of almost two months between the Diriyah E-Prix (January 26-27) and the Sao Paulo E-Prix (March 16).
Also see:
Kush Maini: ‘Formula E test role can help improve F2 results’