Bombay Sapphire’s electric raceboats make a splash on the Thames

London got a glimpse of the future this month as the E1 World Championship made its UK debut with a showrun on the Thames, presented by Bombay Sapphire.

The event marked the first time the all-electric E1 RaceBirds were seen on the river, passing landmarks like Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament.

E1 was founded during the pandemic by Alejandro Agag and Rodi Basso, and has since grown into a global series backed by names like Tom Brady, Rafael Nadal, and Didier Drogba. The nine teams race hydrofoiling, fully electric boats in locations from Monaco to Miami.

images via PA Media Assignments

With support from the Port of London Authority, the London showcase hinted at what a more sustainable Thames could look like. Basso said, “Seeing the E1 RaceBirds take flight on the Thames… gives me great hope E1 can make a lasting impact.”

For Bombay Sapphire, the showrun is part of a broader partnership that includes pop-up bars and events across Europe.

The brand’s signature blue was on full display with a branded RaceBird on the water.

Natasha Curtin, Global VP, said it was “the perfect way to mark what’s only the beginning of our electrifying partnership.”

The collaboration also supports the Blue Impact Championship, E1’s initiative to protect coastal ecosystems. With London behind them, the teams head next to Monaco, then Lagos, before wrapping the season in Miami where one team will be crowned the 2025 “Champions of the Water.”

The Thames appearance was a subtle but strong signal: electric racing is no longer just for the track.

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