“It’s absolutely fascinating”: Tom Brady and LeBron James dive into electric water racing with E1 Series in bold sports-tech venture

In a revolutionary blend of sustainability, star power, and high-tech sport, NFL legend Tom Brady and NBA superstar LeBron James are now owners of electric powerboat racing teams in the emerging E1 Series—an audacious project that’s capturing global attention. Spearheaded by former Ferrari and NASA engineer Rodi Basso, the E1 Series aims to redefine marine motorsports and bring electric racing to waterways around the world.

The Mirror reports that the project, first pitched on a blank sheet of paper in Monaco in 2020, has grown into a powerhouse venture attracting icons like Rafael Nadal, Marc Anthony, Will Smith, and Didier Drogba. As the E1 Series enters its second season, it has already toured prestigious global locations like Venice, Jeddah, and Miami, with Lagos, Nigeria and Tokyo on the expansion radar.
Both Brady and James bring more than name recognition. Their involvement is strategic and hands-on. Basso shared with The Mirror, “Tom was one of those that was incredibly active…in suggesting what modifications to make the sport more fascinating, and we followed some of his suggestions.” LeBron’s Team AlUla joins the ranks as one of the newest entries, while Brady’s team claimed the championship in Season 1.

While the E1 Series owns the boats and manages the logistics, celebrity team owners pay to race, and cities pay to host—creating a dynamic business model with exponential growth potential. One license has already been sold at five times its original value, revealing a robust investment opportunity for those in early.

The E1 Series prides itself on more than just glamour. It's about impact, inclusivity, and technological advancement. With male and female pilots sharing boats and racing equally, the series champions diversity and equality in motorsport. “We have 18 pilots… and also 11 nationalities,” Basso noted, signaling the league’s global inclusivity.
Basso’s vision goes beyond the racecourse. “It’s absolutely fascinating to go to Mars, but we should also look down sometimes. The ocean is an incredible source of solutions,” he said.
As E1 eyes expansion and increased media reach, Basso is on a mission to crown a queen among celebrity owners—“She is a potential target, 100%,” he says of Serena Williams.
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With elite athletes, game-changing tech, and a mission for sustainability, the E1 Series is carving out a bold new chapter in global sports.