The UIM E1 World Championship, the first-ever all-electric raceboat series, has partnered with the Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM) to launch the E1 Pilot Academy. This groundbreaking programme aims to identify and train a new generation of pilots for the series’ second season, which will take place in 2025.
Following a thrilling race hosted by the YCM last month—where HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco presented the winner’s trophy alongside celebrity team owners Tom Brady, Didier Drogba, and Marcelo Claure—the partnership now shifts its focus to talent development. The UIM E1 La Belle Classe Academy by YCM is scouting athletes from various racing disciplines to compete aboard E1’s cutting-edge electric RaceBird boats.
The first academy modules are scheduled to take place later this year on Monaco’s stunning waters, with YCM’s state-of-the-art facilities providing the base for the initiative. The goal is to give successful candidates the chance to race in world-class coastal cities, potentially including Monaco, under the management of high-profile team owners like Marc Anthony, Steve Aoki, and Will Smith.
Prince Albert II expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating: “The Pilot Academy will help identify the next generation of pilots for E1’s second season. I encourage all interested athletes to apply.”
YCM General Secretary Bernard d’Alessandri highlighted the academy’s role in Monaco’s vision for the future of yachting: “This collaboration with E1 allows us to train a new generation of professional pilots, integrating the latest technologies and contributing to the principality’s reputation as a leader in advanced yachting.”
With a focus on diversity and gender equality, E1 Co-Founder and CEO Rodi Basso said: “We are thrilled to relaunch the academy and work with YCM to nurture a diverse pool of talent.” The programme promises rigorous training to prepare participants for the E1 series.
Applications for the E1 Pilot Academy are now open.
For more on Monaco’s thriving yachting scene, read about the Monaco Smart and Sustainable Marinas, the Monaco EnergyBoat Challenge, and the Yacht Club de Monaco’s innovations in sustainability.
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