E1 announces thrilling championship battle set to race in Croatia this summer

The UIM E1 World Championship presented by PIF, the world’s first and only all-electric raceboat Championship, has today announced Dubrovnik, Croatia, as an exciting new race destination for 2025.

The E1 Dubrovnik GP 2025, presented by Adriatic Luxury Hotels will see the innovative Championship visit the historic Adriatic city from June 13 to 14, joining other prestigious coastal locations including Jeddah, Monaco and Miami as a host city of the global innovative electric racing series.

Known for its medieval architecture and UNESCO World Heritage site status, Dubrovnik will provide a stunning backdrop for the nine teams competing against each other in their E1 RaceBirds. 

The Championship has already gained worldwide attention and features teams owned by high-profile celebrities including NFL icon Tom Brady, Hollywood actor Will Smith and tennis legend Rafael Nadal. In June, E1 is set to bring its unique blend of excitement, glamour and sustainability to Croatia for the first time.

Each E1 team competes with one male and one female pilot. Beyond the racing, teams actively engage with local communities to promote efforts to regenerate the world’s oceans and aquatic ecosystems.

The race weekend will include testing, free practice, and qualifications which will take place on June 13, followed by play-off races, elimination rounds, and the final race on June 14.

Spectators will be able to watch the race from Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls, as the race course will be located between the Old City and Lokrum Island. 

As Dubrovnik prepares to welcome the world’s top electric racing teams in June, the countdown to one of the most spectacular events of the 2025 E1 season has officially begun.

Tonči Glavina, Croatian Minister of Tourism and Sport, said: “We are delighted that Croatia will host yet another major and exciting sporting event - one that not only has a strong sports and promotional tourism component but also focuses on sustainability and ocean preservation. Over the past eight years, the Croatian Government has supported nearly 190 major international sporting events, with a total value exceeding 60 million euros. This has positioned our country as an excellent host of global sports events.

“The E1 Dubrovnik GP 2025, presented by Adriatic Luxury Hotels is among these prestigious events, placing Dubrovnik alongside Doha, Monaco, Miami, and other world-class destinations. I am confident this electric powerboat race will significantly contribute to the promotion and visibility of both Dubrovnik and Croatia, strengthening our position as a premier tourism and sports destination.”

Davor Luksic, Excelsa Chairman, said: “We’re extremely proud to have Adriatic Luxury Hotels as the presenting partner for the E1 race in Dubrovnik on June 13 to 14, 2025. The E1 Series is the world’s first all-electric race boat championship—an exciting blend of sport, innovation, and sustainability.

“For us, this partnership is about more than just racing. It’s a reflection of our long-term commitment to sustainability, innovation, and to promoting Dubrovnik as a destination for world-class events and experiences. Hosting the E1 race is a chance to showcase not only the beauty of our city but also our enthusiasm to support forward-thinking global events that align with our core values.”

Alejandro Agag, Chairman and founder of E1, said: “We’re thrilled to bring the action and excitement of our pioneering championship to the Adriatic for The E1 Dubrovnik GP 2025, presented by Adriatic Luxury Hotels. Dubrovnik is an extraordinary location with great ambitions and we are looking forward to delivering an event blending sport, entertainment and sustainability. 

Rodi Basso, CEO and founder of E1, said: “This ancient city is a superb addition to E1’s race calendar. The E1 Dubrovnik GP 2025, presented by Adriatic Luxury Hotels will combine the city’s natural beauty with its rich maritime heritage makes Dubrovnik a jewel in the E1 calendar.

“E1 will be working closely with the Croatian Government and the Croatian National Tourist Board to help ensure a lasting positive impact and accelerate a sustainable future for the city.”

Alen Bošković, who leads the race’s organising committee along with Žarko Knego, said: “By joining the prestigious E1 calendar, which includes destinations across the globe, The E1 Dubrovnik GP 2025, presented by Adriatic Luxury Hotels promises a unique blend of heritage and innovation. 

“Once the proud capital of the Republic of Ragusa—a maritime power and symbol of diplomacy and freedom—Dubrovnik has recently earned international fame as the real-life setting of King’s Landing in HBO’s global hit ‘Game of Thrones.’ This makes it a city where historical and fantasy legends meet the future of innovation. Now, with the arrival of E1, Dubrovnik is writing a new chapter in its rich history—becoming the home of electric marine motorsport.

“This is truly a special day for Croatia and the City of Dubrovnik. Thank you to everyone who recognised the importance of this event. Without the support of the Croatian Government, the Ministry of Tourism and Sport, the Dubrovnik-Neretva County, and the City of Dubrovnik, this wouldn’t have been possible. We’re proud that our bid to host a race was successful. 

“The numbers from previous races are incredible - millions of viewers around the world and global media coverage. This is fantastic news for Croatia. We’ve joined a select group of countries with the opportunity to host this spectacular event. We will present Croatia in the best possible light.”

Žarko Knego from the Croatia Powerboating Club, co-organiser of the event, said: “This prestigious race is not just a sporting event, but also a powerful opportunity to showcase Croatia and its tourism offering. With E1’s global reach, it ensures international visibility for the host city and country, highlighting landmarks, culture, and lifestyle - creating a powerful marketing platform. This exposure can attract future tourists, investors, and businesses, reinforcing the city’s status as a global destination. It also enhances Croatia’s position as a leading tourist and sports hub.”