"Circuit currently inaccessible by vehicle" - Formula E pre-season testing in Valencia jeopardised after extreme rain

Following the severe weather in the Spanish region of Valencia with more than 50 fatalities, the official Formula E pre-season tests are also under threat. They are scheduled to take place next week from 4 to 7 November at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo near Valencia. Formula E issued a statement on the current situation on Wednesday morning.

"Our thoughts go out to those affected by the extreme weather conditions in Spain," wrote the electric racing series. "We are working closely with the local authorities and representatives of the Ricardo Tormo Circuit in Valencia ahead of the scheduled FIA Formula E official test next week."

"Due to damage to the main access road (see video below) caused by a burst river bank nearby, the circuit is currently inaccessible by vehicle. Four members of Formula E staff stayed at the circuit last night as a precaution, but are safe and able to transfer to and from the circuit by foot."

The circuit operator also posted on X that all people on the circuit site were safe.

My god. Extreme damage to the main road into the circuit in Valencia, and the minimoto circuit is gone ? pic.twitter.com/iIDWADSZLK

- Simon Patterson (@denkmit) October 30, 2024

Although the "Minimoto" circuit has reportedly been affected, the Grand Prix circuit shows "no signs of damage", writes Formula E. The series is continuing to inspect the garages and freight. "Alternative access routes in and out of the circuit are currently being investigated. We are closely monitoring the situation and will provide further updates in due course."

Another post by MotoGP journalist Simon Patterson shows the extreme water masses making their way through the streets in the village of Chiva in the immediate vicinity of the race track. It remains to be seen whether the Formula E test can take place as planned next week.

Just absolutely terrifying scenes from Chiva, the home of the Valencia Grand Prix. Praying that everyone is OK pic.twitter.com/3O0Xm0uLUQ

- Simon Patterson (@denkmit) October 30, 2024