Few locations in world motorsport match the sheer visual spectacle of Lake Como, and the UIM E1 World Championship is heading back there this week for the E1 Lake Como GP 2026, presented by Villa d'Este. Racing runs across 24 and 25 April, kicking off a three-race European swing that will take in Dubrovnik before reaching Monaco.
Como last featured on the E1 calendar in 2024, and the eagerness surrounding this return reflects how well the setting suits the all-electric RaceBird series. Alpine peaks rise behind glassy water, the lake carries a long association with luxury and exclusivity, and there is a natural fit with the innovation and sustainability the series champions. Villa d'Este, the five-star hotel on the lake's western shore since 1873, comes on board as presenting partner, a pairing that reinforces that positioning.
The season opened in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in January. Aoki Racing Team took the win there and arrives at Como leading the championship on 40 points, seven clear of Team Brady in second. The round also marks the first race since Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and NBA champion Kyle Kuzma announced their investment in Sierra Racing Club, currently sitting fifth on 15 points.
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With a single round completed, the standings remain compressed enough that a strong Como performance could reshape the season's picture. Team AlUla championed by LeBron James occupies third on 24 points, with Westbrook Racing in fourth on 19. Sierra Racing Club's 15 points place them fifth, and Team Rafa is close behind on 13. Team Miami powered by Magnus, Team Blue Rising, Team Monaco and Team Drogba Global Africa complete the top ten, with only 12 points covering seventh through to tenth.
E1 CEO Jamie Copas spoke about the appeal of the venue, noting that Lake Como is one of those places where the setting does the talking. He called the return a privilege and said he was looking forward to watching the RaceBirds compete again as teams chase an early advantage in the Championship.
Spectators attending in person can head to Piazza Risorgimento, where a public viewing area will provide paddock access, pilot meet-and-greets and an E1 simulator across the weekend. Those after a more premium experience can access E1 Ocean Club hospitality through ticketing partner Fever, with packages that include a hot lap around the racecourse alongside an E1 reserve pilot. Visitors arriving by water can pick up a bring-your-own-boat ticket for perimeter access.
Away from the racing, a Milan Design Week activation running until 26 April at Opificio 31 marks the second year of Bombay Sapphire's partnership with E1 as Official Gin Partner. A RaceBird finished in Bombay Sapphire blue livery sits at the centre of the installation.
Italian audiences can follow proceedings live on DAZN or through E1's YouTube channel, with Mino Taveri on commentary for Saturday's finals. The final itself is scheduled for 25 April.
