Tokyo E-Prix Set for Historic First Night Race Double-Header

Posted : 24 July 2026

The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship arrives in Japan this weekend for the 2026 TDK Tokyo E-Prix, with Saturday's opening race marking the series' first-ever night race in Tokyo. The event, held around the 2.575-kilometre street circuit surrounding Tokyo Big Sight, is the penultimate race weekend of the 2025/26 season.

Saturday's programme begins with Free Practice 2 at 1:30 p.m. local time before qualifying at 3:40 p.m. The opening race starts under the lights at 8:05 p.m., creating a spectacular new setting for Formula E's return to the Japanese capital.

The championship battle remains finely balanced with only four races left in the season. Porsche's Pascal Wehrlein leads the drivers' standings with 141 points after taking over the championship lead in Shanghai. Jaguar TCS Racing's Mitch Evans follows on 132 points, while defending world champion Oliver Rowland sits third with 114 points and remains firmly in contention.

Home favourites Nissan Formula E Team will be one of the biggest attractions of the weekend. The Japanese manufacturer has unveiled a special "night-mode" livery inspired by the new Nissan LEAF NISMO, featuring its traditional cherry blossom design adapted for Tokyo's first night race.

Rowland returns to Nissan's home event with an impressive record at the Tokyo circuit. The British driver has claimed pole position in every Formula E qualifying session held in Tokyo and converted last year's pole into victory. He will be aiming to repeat that success as he seeks to close the gap to the championship leaders.

Speaking ahead of the event, Rowland said racing in Tokyo is always special because of the atmosphere created by Nissan's home supporters. He also admitted the switch to a night race presents a fresh challenge and highlighted the importance of delivering a strong result during a crucial stage of the title fight.

The 18-turn Tokyo Street Circuit is regarded as one of the most technical layouts on the Formula E calendar. Winding around the Tokyo Big Sight convention centre, the compact circuit combines tight corners with short straights that demand precision, efficient energy management and effective overtaking strategy from drivers.

The Tokyo E-Prix also supports the Japanese capital's Zero Emission Tokyo initiative, with Formula E continuing its partnership with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to promote sustainable transport and electric vehicle technology through world-class motorsport.

Following Saturday's opening race, teams will return on Sunday for another full programme featuring Free Practice 3, qualifying and the second night race, as the championship battle heads towards its dramatic conclusion.

Tokyo E-Prix Set for Historic First Night Race Double-Header

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