Full Breakdown
Disney+ Becomes Global Streaming Home for Formula E
8/11/2026, 8:03:00 PM
Core Deal: Disney+ Secures Global Rights for 2026-27 Season
On August 11, the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship announced a multi-year agreement that makes Disney+ the exclusive streaming platform for the series in 144 territories, with ESPN+ carrying the feed in the United States. The contract begins with the 2026-27 season, which launches on December 18, 2026, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and runs through July 25, 2027, in Tokyo. Existing free-to-air or linear broadcast partners will continue alongside Disney+.
Background & Context
Formula E debuted in 2014 as an all-electric motorsport series and is majority-owned by Liberty Global. After early seasons aired on linear networks, the championship moved to over-the-top platforms such as Roku and CBS in the United States. The series reports 422 million global fans after the 2024-25 season and will launch its fourth-generation (GEN4) car and an expanded 21-race calendar across 13 cities.
Data & Statistics
- Territories: 144 countries and territories will receive live coverage via Disney+.
- Races: 21 rounds in 13 cities, opening December 18, 2026, and concluding July 25, 2027.
- GEN4 Car: 600 kW (? 815 hp), 0-60 mph in ~1.8 seconds, about 30 % faster than a Formula 1 car.
- Fan Engagement: 58 % of the audience are “highly engaged,” roughly 158 million fans in Tier 1 markets.
- Financial Terms: No monetary details were disclosed.
Official Statements & Responses
Formula E chief executive Jeff Dodds called the arrangement a “landmark moment” that leverages Disney’s global reach while preserving existing broadcast partnerships. Disney’s co-president of Direct-to-Consumer, Joe Earley, highlighted the sport’s blend of competition, technology and sustainability as a fit for Disney’s portfolio. Chief media officer Michaella Snoeck noted that the deal lets Formula E keep local linear TV feeds while expanding its digital footprint.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is a landmark moment for Formula E and reflects the incredible momentum behind our championship,” — Jeff Dodds
- “Formula E combines world-class competition, groundbreaking technology and sustainability in a way that’s unlike any other sport,” — Joe Earley
Why It Matters
The partnership places Formula E alongside other high-profile sports properties in Disney’s streaming lineup, exposing the electric-racing brand to households that previously did not follow motorsport. By pairing the GEN4 car’s performance with Disney’s storytelling capabilities, the series aims to deepen fan engagement and reinforce its sustainability narrative. The deal also reflects a broader industry shift toward streaming-first rights models for live sports.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources agree on the core terms of the Disney+ agreement; however, the future of a dedicated U.S. linear television partner remains unclear. Jeff Dodds declined to comment on whether CBS or another broadcaster will retain a domestic TV slot.
What’s Next
The first GEN4 race weekend will be streamed live on Disney+ and ESPN+ beginning December 18, 2026, in Jeddah. Subsequent events will follow the 21-race schedule, culminating with the night-time finale in Tokyo on July 25, 2027. Formula E will also offer supplemental programming—previews, highlights and on-demand replays—through Disney+ throughout the season.
