Lucas di Grassi Retires, Ends Formula E Era

Motorsport, Sportrik Media - Lucas di Grassi of Lola Yamaha ABT has confirmed that the 2026 season will mark his final year as a professional racing driver, bringing to a close one of the most influential careers in Formula E.

The Brazilian will conclude his career at the London season finale, ending a journey that began with the championship’s inaugural race in Beijing in 2014. Since then, di Grassi has been one of the most consistent and ever-present figures on the grid, competing in nearly every E-Prix while playing a central role in the early development of the all-electric series.

His contribution extends beyond results, as di Grassi was instrumental in shaping Formula E during its formative years. Widely referred to as “Mr Formula E,” he was part of the group that helped bring the championship to life and went on to win its very first race. He later secured the drivers’ title in the third season, cementing his status as one of the category’s defining competitors.

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Across his Formula E career, di Grassi has accumulated 13 victories, 41 podium finishes, and over 1,000 points, making him one of the most successful drivers in the series’ history. In addition to his achievements in Formula E, he has also competed in Formula 1 and the World Endurance Championship, where he finished as runner-up with Audi in 2016.

"After a lifetime dedicated to racing, 2026 will mark my final season as a professional racing driver and the beginning of a new chapter," said di Grassi.

"Motorsport has been my life for as long as I can remember. It gave me discipline, resilience, and purpose. From São Paulo to Monaco, this journey shaped me as a driver, a person, and as part of a family."

The decision to retire was made in close consultation with his family, who have been central to his career throughout the years. Di Grassi emphasised that their support enabled him to navigate the demands of professional motorsport and ultimately influenced his choice to step away from full-time competition.

"I am deeply grateful to my family for their support through every sacrifice, decision, victory, and defeat. Without them, none of this would have been possible."

Although stepping away from racing duties, di Grassi will remain involved in motorsport, continuing to support the development of future Formula E machinery with Lola Yamaha ABT, particularly in preparation for the upcoming Gen4 era.

Tributes have also come from within the championship. Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds highlighted di Grassi’s impact as extending far beyond his role as a driver, describing him as a key figure in the evolution of the series.

"Lucas has been synonymous with Formula E since the very beginning. He didn’t just race—he believed in the mission of electric mobility and helped drive the championship forward," Dodds stated.

Formula E co-founder Alejandro Agag also recognised di Grassi’s legacy, describing him as a fundamental part of the championship’s identity and growth since its inception.

The Brazilian’s departure follows that of Sam Bird, signalling the gradual transition away from the first generation of Formula E drivers. This shift is expected to accelerate with the introduction of Gen4 regulations, opening opportunities for a new wave of talent.

With over a decade of influence and achievement, di Grassi’s retirement represents a significant moment for Formula E. His absence will reshape the competitive landscape while marking the end of a defining chapter in the series’ history.

Attention now turns to how he will conclude his final season and how the championship will evolve without one of its foundational figures, as Formula E prepares for its next phase of development.