E1: Pilots sought for “new art form of racing”

The UIM E1 World Championship, the world’s first all-electric raceboat series, has announced the relaunch of its Pilot Academy, a talent identification programme designed to uncover a new generation of pilots for its second season.

With new teams set to be introduced, the E1 Pilot Academy is now on the hunt for athletes from various racing backgrounds and disciplines to secure their spot in the E1 fleet for 2025.

Successful racers will be given the unique opportunity to compete in iconic coastal cities around the world aboard the RaceBird, E1’s futuristic electric raceboat, under the management of high-profile celebrity team owners including Tom Brady and Will Smith.

Anna Glennon of Team Miami powered by Magnus, who progressed through the inaugural Pilot Academy said, “Competing in the RaceBird is more like flying than driving – it’s an unreal experience. It’s a unique beast that takes time and intuition to tame – success comes from working in harmony with the RaceBird. This is a new art form of racing that takes an incredible amount of finesse. It’s been an incredible privilege to be a part of it.”

E1 pilots are in a male/female team, fostering diversity in the racing world

Candidates selected for the academy will undergo rigorous trials, overseen by renowned powerboating figures Mathilda Wiberg and Claire Toohey.

E1 regulations mandate that each team must select two pilots of different genders, fostering equal opportunities and promoting diversity in the next generation of RaceBird pilots.

The structured training programme will equip contenders with essential skills and knowledge, including safety, media, and fitness training, as well as hands-on experience driving various types of boats. Successful candidates will join the ‘pilot pool,’ from which teams will select their line-ups.

“We are excited to relaunch the E1 Pilot Academy, which embodies our commitment to nurturing diverse talent and promoting gender equality in sport,” said Rodi Basso, Co-Founder and CEO of E1. “Our academy is a unique platform that merges the worlds of powerboating, sailing, and automotive racing, creating a breeding ground for future Champions of the Water.

Applications for the E1 Pilot Academy are now open. To register your interest or find out more, contact recruitmentpilotacademy@e1series.com

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