It was quite impressive to see the RaceBirds, the E1 Series electric racing boats, parading along the canals of Venice. An evocative image between past and future that was taken during the second stage of the UIM E1 World Championship, the first world championship of electric powerboating, which was hosted by the lagoon city, with a competition field in front of the private island of San Clemente.
The races were dominated by Team Brady, the team of NFL icon Tom Brady, seven-time Superbowl winner, whose drivers are Sam Coleman and Emma Kimiläinen, two champions. “Sam and Emma were incredible – said a very excited Brady -. “I am very proud of the team and everything they are doing, we started off great a few months ago in Jeddah and we must continue like this.
In second place in the GP was Team Brazil, owned by millionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist Marcelo Claure, followed by newcomers Westbrook Racing, owned by actor Will Smith. “It was a weekend of blood, sweat and tears, the race was so competitive it was a real rollercoaster” said Coleman, celebrating the victory. An encore, because he and Emma had already won their debut GP in Jeddah. The general classification sees Team Brady in the lead, followed by Team Miami and Team Rafa.
Of note, as a corollary to the competitions, was the parade of boats in the canals of Venice and Brady’s show, who performed with a launch like the champion he is, from a street towards his stable’s boat in the middle of the canal, with a excellent Emma Kimiläinen to receive.
Next stop Puerto Banus, Marbella on 1-2 June.
E1 Championship Points:
1. Team Brady – 41
2. Team Miami powered by Magnus – 25
3. Team Rafa – 19
4. Team Brazil by Claure Group – 17
5. Team Drogba – 15
6. Team Westbrook Racing – 13
7. Team Blue Rising – 12
8. Sergio Perez E1 Team – 8
9. Aoki Racing – 6
