Dani Clos steered Aoki Racing Team to a thrilling win at the first-ever E1 Dubrovnik GP, overtaking rivals Team Rafa in the overall standings and handing NBA legend LeBron James his first podium in the all-electric UIM E1 World Championship.

Set against the historic seafront of Dubrovnik, the UIM E1 World Championship made a striking debut in Croatia on 14th June, drawing thousands of spectators. The race marked the third stop of the season and delivered no shortage of drama. Aoki Racing Team, backed by global music star Steve Aoki, stormed to victory with Spanish pilot Dani Clos at the helm, closely supported by teammate Mashael Alobaidan. Clos, a former Formula 1 test driver and new signing for 2025, clinched the win in a nail-biting finale ahead of Team Brady and Team AlUla.

LeBron James claims a first podium

Team AlUla, co-owned by basketball icon LeBron James, celebrated its first-ever top-three finish, edging out Rafael Nadal’s Team Rafa, which settled for fourth. With this result, Aoki Racing now leads the standings, leapfrogging Nadal’s squad in what is shaping up to be a season-long rivalry for the title of Champions of the Water.

Consistency rewarded

Sam Coleman of Team Brady was named PIF Pilot of the Race for his composed and skilful piloting. The Welshman’s performance brought his team back to the podium and highlighted the high level of talent across the championship’s mixed-gender teams.

Dubrovnik sets a high bar for future races

Alejandro Agag, E1 co-founder and chairman, praised the debut Dubrovnik race, calling it a “historic moment” for the sport. “The Adriatic waters and the city’s iconic backdrop made for a perfect setting,” he said. Fellow co-founder and CEO Rodi Basso added: “This is the second win this season for Aoki Racing, and the team now leads the championship with growing momentum.”

Next stop: Lake Maggiore

The E1 championship resumes at Lake Maggiore in Italy from 27th to 28th June, marking the halfway point in a season that has already seen a series of intense on-water battles. All eyes will be on the title race as Team Rafa looks to reclaim the lead from the surging Aoki Racing.

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Photo source: E1