MADRID – In a significant development for the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, DS Automobiles has announced it will withdraw from the all-electric racing series at the end of the current twelfth season (2025/26). The decision, confirmed on Thursday, marks the end of an era for the French manufacturer, which has been a mainstay in Formula E since Season 2 and boasts an impressive record of success within the sport. The move is part of a broader reorganization within the Stellantis automotive group, following Maserati’s departure last year.
DS Automobiles’ exit follows a pattern of shifting priorities within Stellantis, and comes as the company looks to realign its sporting and technological strategy. Rather than continuing in Formula E, DS will concentrate its efforts on golf and a partnership with SailGP Team France, viewing the sailing competition as a unique “innovation laboratory” where technological performance and emotion converge. A major press conference is scheduled for Friday in Madrid to further detail the changes.
“After eleven years of pioneering involvement in Formula E, 18 victories, two drivers’ titles and two constructors’ titles, DS Automobiles has demonstrated its ability to transform competition into technological reality,” said Xavier Peugeot, CEO of DS Automobiles, in a statement. “This is illustrated by our latest models DS N°4, DS N°7 and DS N°8. To further drive French excellence, we are now taking the next step. We are aligning our partnership strategy with SailGP – a unique innovation laboratory where technological performance and emotion come together.”
A History of Success in Electric Racing
DS Automobiles entered Formula E as a technical partner to Virgin Racing (now Envision) in Season 2. The brand’s most successful period came during its partnership with Techeetah, where it served as a powertrain supplier. This collaboration yielded back-to-back drivers’ championships with Jean-Eric Vergne in 2019 and Antonio Felix da Costa in 2020, as well as consecutive team championships for Techeetah. More recently, DS Automobiles partnered with Penske, achieving three race victories: Vergne in Hyderabad in 2023, and Max Günther in Jeddah and Shanghai in 2025.
Throughout its 11 years in Formula E, DS Automobiles has accumulated a remarkable record, including four championship titles, 18 race wins, 55 podium finishes, and 26 pole positions across over 139 races. The brand stands as one of the most successful manufacturers in the history of the electric racing series.
The decision to leave Formula E raises questions about Stellantis’ future involvement in the championship. While DS Automobiles is departing, the automotive group has not yet announced a successor brand to take its place. Speculation suggests Opel may join the series for the 2026-27 campaign, potentially filling the void left by DS, but this remains unconfirmed.
What In other words for Formula E
DS Automobiles’ departure represents a loss for Formula E, removing a manufacturer with a long and successful history in the series. The brand’s technological contributions and competitive presence have been instrumental in the growth and development of the championship. The move also highlights the evolving landscape of electric motorsport, as manufacturers reassess their strategies and prioritize different areas of technological development.
Despite the announcement, DS Automobiles remains committed to competing in the current season. The team will participate in the Madrid E-Prix this weekend, aiming to secure another podium finish and conclude the season strongly. The Madrid E-Prix will be a key event as teams prepare for the final races of Season 12 and the upcoming changes within the Formula E grid.
The shift towards SailGP reflects a growing trend of manufacturers exploring alternative motorsport platforms to showcase their technological capabilities. SailGP, with its focus on high-performance sailing and sustainable technology, offers a unique opportunity for DS Automobiles to engage with a different audience and develop innovative solutions for the future of mobility. The partnership with SailGP Team France will allow DS to explore modern avenues for development and innovation, aligning with its long-term strategic goals.
As DS Automobiles prepares to conclude its Formula E journey, the brand leaves behind a legacy of success and innovation. The impact of its involvement will be felt throughout the championship for years to come, and its future endeavors in SailGP and golf will undoubtedly provide new opportunities for technological advancement and brand visibility.
The press conference scheduled for Friday in Madrid is expected to provide further details on Stellantis’ plans for the future of its motorsport involvement and the specific strategies for DS Automobiles’ new focus on SailGP. Fans and industry observers will be closely watching for any announcements regarding a potential replacement brand for DS in Formula E.
Next Up: The Madrid E-Prix takes place this weekend, with DS Automobiles aiming for a strong finish before the end of the season. Further updates regarding Stellantis’ motorsport strategy are expected following Friday’s press conference in Madrid.
