Team Brady – backed by NFL legend Tom Brady – shook off an early-season wobble with a stunning victory at the fourth round of the 2025 UIM E1 World Championship, held on the serene waters of Italy’s Lake Maggiore. In a powerhouse performance, reigning “Champions of the Water” Sam Coleman crossed the finish line in P1, securing the team’s first top-spot finish of the season.
Coleman’s triumph was built on a dominant performance by teammate Emma Kimiläinen, who claimed the early place race by an impressive margin of over nine seconds. Her seamless drive set the stage perfectly. “It’s about time! This is great. I am so proud of the team, so happy with the result. Just so happy, amazing!” Coleman beamed following the victory.
Drama unfolded throughout the event. Aoki Racing Team was disqualified for a false start, while Team AlUla, owned by LeBron James, encountered technical woes after colliding with Team Drogba. In another intense moment, Teams Drogba and Brazil made contact in a wake-impacted turn, ramping up the tension.
Rafael Nadal’s Team Rafa seized the day with a strong second-place finish, snatching the Championship lead by seven points ahead of Aoki Racing. Behind them, Blue Rising secured third place and Team Westbrook – co-owned by Will Smith – claimed fourth.
Kimiläinen’s exceptional driving earned her the coveted PIF “Pilot of the Race” award, recognising her clutch performance in the first final. Trophies were presented by a high-profile lineup including E1 CEO Rodi Basso, Lombardy Region President Attilio Fontana, UIM President Raffaele Chiulli, and Italian sports presenter Giusy Meloni.
Ahead of the Monaco leg next month, Basso reflected, “It’s been wonderful to bring the Championship to Italy… these incredible teams continue to push the E1 RaceBirds to their absolute limits in pursuit of victory.” With speeds hitting 93 kph and an engaged crowd of spectators ferrying between boats, the Lake Maggiore GP remains a highlight on the championship calendar.
Next stop on the electric racing tour is motor-sport’s jewel: Monaco. With the competition tightening, the battle for water supremacy is set to make even more waves.
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Photo credit: Spacesuit Media