The Jarama circuit will host the tests in November 2026, ahead of the upcoming season.
Formula E has begun laying the groundwork for the debut of the new GEN4 cars next season. Earlier today, the location for the pre-season testing programme was officially confirmed: the Jarama circuit will host the first official outing of the GEN4 machinery, with five days of testing scheduled from 16 to 20 November 2026.
The Spanish circuit, which hosted the thrilling inaugural edition of the Madrid E-Prix this season, will therefore replace the Ricardo Tormo Circuit in Valencia as the venue for Formula E’s pre-season testing.
Although no official explanation has been provided for the change, a key factor may have been the scheduling of MotoGP, which is set to hold its season finale at Valencia the following weekend, from 27 to 29 November 2026, according to the provisional calendar.
Jarama will therefore host Formula E pre-season testing for the second time, having previously stepped in during 2024 to replace the Ricardo Tormo Circuit in Valencia, which had been rendered unusable by the severe DANA floods that devastated the entire region.
Jarama to Replace Valencia as the Venue for Pre-Season Testing: Reactions and Statements
In the official statement released by Formula E this morning, Alberto Longo, Formula E Co-Founder and Chief Championship Officer, said: “We are delighted that the historic Circuito de Madrid Jarama – RACE will host such a significant milestone in Formula E history. Madrid has already proven to be an outstanding venue for our championship, and there is no better place to debut the new GEN4 car ahead of next season than a circuit that combines motorsport heritage with a forward-looking vision.”
“This is more than just a test; it is the first time the world will see all our drivers, teams and manufacturers showcase their new GEN4 machinery – the most powerful and technologically advanced electric race car ever built ahead of its racing debut. The start of the GEN4 era is a game-changer for performance, innovation and sustainability, and we can’t wait to see our teams and drivers push its limits on this historic track.”
Ignacio Fernández, Director of the circuit, added: “Formula E choosing Circuito de Madrid Jarama – RACE once again to host its pre-season testing and launch this new era for the championship demonstrates the trust that organisers, drivers and teams continue to place in both RACE and its Circuit — a venue with extensive experience, strong organisational capabilities and infrastructure fully prepared to host world-class international events.”
Finally, Pablo Martino, Head of Formula E at the FIA, stated: “Building upon the success of the first-ever Madrid E-Prix earlier this year, Circuito de Madrid Jarama – RACE has proven itself to be an outstanding venue for Formula E, combining a challenging track layout with great facilities. As the championship enters the GEN4 era, these pre-season tests will represent a crucial opportunity for teams, manufacturers and drivers to understand the new car and prepare for the season ahead. We are proud to return to Madrid for another landmark moment in Formula E history as the revolutionary GEN4 car makes its collective track debut.”
PHOTO: ABB FIA Formula E, Circuit de Madrid Jarama.
