Elkins to leave role as Formula E race director

Long-time Formula E race director Scot Elkins is retiring from the role after the upcoming Miami E-Prix.

Elkins, who has been the Formula E race director for the last seven years, will be replaced by Marek Hanaczewski, who has been deputy race director since Season 8 (2021-22) and stood in as race director at the season-opening Sao Paulo E-Prix in December. The American revealed he had planned to retire from the FIA at the end of the current season, but a change to his personal circumstances moved the plan forwards.

“After 10 years in Formula E, the time has come for me to retire as race director,” said Elkins. “With the recent loss of my father this past December, I have new responsibilities that require my time and attention at home.

“While I had hoped to complete Season 11 and retire at its conclusion, my plans have now been accelerated and my focus remains on my family. I will continue working in motorsport, primarily on projects based in the USA. I have been honored to be a part of the Formula E paddock and am grateful for the friendships that have grown over the years.

“Although I am very sad to leave, I am confident in the staff that will remain. We have worked closely together and I know they are committed to making the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship a success, this season and in the many to come.”

As well as serving as race director in Formula E, Elkins was race director for Extreme E and DTM, a steward for Nitrocross, and deputy race director for Formula 1, Formula 2, and Formula 3 in recent seasons. Upon his exit from the FIA, he will assume the roles of CEO of motorsport technology business Al Kamel Systems North America and strategic director of its parent Al Kamel Systems.

Ahead of Elkins’ exit, he and Hanaczewski will swap roles at next week’s Jeddah E-Prix, then from the Monaco E-Prix at the start of May, Hanaczewski will fully take on the race director role, with Formula E’s current head of circuit operations (and head of sporting matters in the FIA World Endurance Championship) Benoit Dupont assuming the role of deputy race director.

“Stepping into the role of race director is an exciting new chapter in my motorsport career, and the continuation of a journey that began 13 years ago,” said Hanaczewski. “Since 2017, I have had the privilege to work alongside Scot, who has been not only a great leader but also a mentor, teacher and friend.

“I am incredibly grateful for the knowledge, experience and trust he has shared with me over the years. His contribution to Formula E is undeniable, and I deeply appreciate the time we have spent working together. Now, I look forward to leading race operations and ensuring the continued growth and success of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.”