Formula E - Monaco E-Prix (Round 10)

The Monaco E-Prix (Round 10) brings all-electric Formula E racing to the streets of Monte Carlo for a double-header weekend. This represents the first time formula-e will host two races around the Monegasque streets during a single event weekend. Round 9 takes place on Saturday, while Round 10 follows on Sunday, offering fans an extended showcase of electric motorsport at one of racing's most celebrated venues.

Circuit de Monaco: The Full Grand Prix Layout

The Monaco E-Prix uses the complete Circuit de Monaco layout, the same configuration that Formula 1 has raced on since 2022. This street circuit measures 3.337 km (2.074 mi) and features 19 turns that wind through the principality. The track climbs up Beau Rivage, passes through Casino Square, descends through Mirabeau, and navigates the Grand Hotel Hairpin before drivers enter the famous tunnel section. The circuit then emerges along the harbourfront, leading to the Nouvelle Chicane and Port Hercule.

The track presents significant challenges with its narrow width, elevation changes totaling 42 meters, and technical corners that demand precise driving. Formula E cars demonstrate their instant torque acceleration out of corners like Sainte-Dévote and Port Hercule. Energy management becomes critical on this demanding circuit, particularly with regenerative braking zones that influence race strategy and rhythm.

The Gen3 Evo Car Technology

The 2026 Monaco E-Prix features the Gen3 Evo car, which builds upon the Gen3 platform introduced for the 2024-2025 season. This car accelerates from 0-60mph in 1.82 seconds, making it the fastest accelerating FIA single-seater race car. The Gen3 Evo brings approximately 2% performance improvement over its predecessor, translating to roughly 2 seconds faster qualifying laps at Circuit de Monaco.

All-Wheel Drive System

Formula E introduces all-wheel drive for the first time with the Gen3 Evo. Drivers can access AWD during qualifying duels, race starts, and ATTACK MODE periods. This feature maximizes acceleration and control during critical race moments.

Energy and Regeneration

The Gen3 Evo optimizes 600kW regenerative braking capacity across both axles. The front motor exclusively handles energy regeneration, while the rear motor provides 350kW of regenerative braking. Cars can regenerate nearly 50% of the energy needed during a race through this braking system. The rear axle operates without traditional hydraulic brakes, relying entirely on regenerative braking from its motor.

Battery and Efficiency

The car carries a battery with approximately 38.5 kWh of usable energy, capable of flash-charging at rates up to 600kW. The electric motor operates at over 95% efficiency, far exceeding the 40% efficiency typical of internal combustion engines. The battery development incorporates sustainable practices and ethical material sourcing.

Aerodynamics and Tires

The Gen3 Evo features an updated body kit that improves aerodynamics and durability for closer wheel-to-wheel racing. Hankook iON all-weather tires provide 5-10% more grip compared to previous generations and contain 35% recycled and sustainable materials.

Sustainability Focus

The Gen3 Evo serves as the first net-zero carbon race car in formula-e, which operates as the first net-zero carbon motorsport series. The car's development prioritizes sustainable materials and production methods throughout its lifecycle.

Teams and Drivers in Formula E

Formula E typically fields 11 teams and 22 drivers competing for championship points. The series attracts major automotive manufacturers who use the platform to showcase electric vehicle technology. Several drivers have achieved victories at Circuit de Monaco throughout the series' history, including Sébastien Buemi, Jean-Éric Vergne, António Félix da Costa, Stoffel Vandoorne, Nick Cassidy, Mitch Evans, and Oliver Rowland. The final lineup for the 2026 season will be confirmed closer to the championship start.

Race Format and Features

A typical formula-e race weekend includes free practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and the main E-Prix. The qualifying format involves group stages followed by duels that determine grid positions. Fanboost allows spectators to vote for their favorite driver, granting that driver extra power for a short period during the race. Energy management plays a crucial role in race strategy, especially on demanding circuits like Monte Carlo where efficiency determines success.

Monaco E-Prix History

Monaco joined the Formula E calendar during the inaugural 2014-2015 season. Early editions used a shortened version of the circuit, primarily around the harbor area, due to the limited range of first-generation formula-e cars. From 2021 onward, and definitively from 2022, Formula E has competed on the full Grand Prix layout. This progression demonstrates the significant technological advancement in electric racing cars. The FIA's World Motor Sport Council confirmed Monaco as an annual fixture in the championship in June 2021.

What Makes Monaco E-Prix Unique

Monaco ranks as the second-smallest country by land area after Vatican City, creating a unique racing environment. Nelson Piquet once compared racing in Monaco to "riding a bicycle around your living room," yet Formula E has proven that overtakes occur regularly on the full circuit. The temporary street circuit requires six weeks to build and three weeks to dismantle after racing concludes.

The Monaco E-Prix offers a different atmosphere compared to traditional Grand Prix events. Lower noise levels from electric powertrains and easier spectator access make the event more approachable for fans. The combination of electric racing technology and Monte Carlo's streets creates a distinctive motorsport experience.

Technical Challenge of Circuit de Monaco

Circuit de Monaco tests every aspect of formula-e technology and driver skill. The narrow track limits overtaking opportunities, placing premium value on qualifying performance and strategic decisions. Regenerative braking zones before corners like the Nouvelle Chicane become critical for energy recovery. Teams must balance speed with efficiency, ensuring cars have sufficient energy to complete the race distance while maintaining competitive pace.

The Monaco E-Prix (Round 10) showcases electric racing at its most demanding. The combination of the Gen3 Evo car's advanced technology, the challenging Circuit de Monaco, and the double-header format creates a compelling motorsport spectacle. This event demonstrates how formula-e continues to push the boundaries of electric vehicle performance while maintaining its commitment to sustainable racing.