Formula E has announced its achievement of the top position in the Global Sustainability Benchmark in Sport (GSBS) for the fourth consecutive year, solidifying its status as the world’s most sustainable sport.
The independent GSBS organization, which specializes in Corporate, Environmental, Social, and Governance (CESG) ratings, awarded Formula E the Best Total Performance designation, along with top rankings in the Environmental and Social categories. While the 2025 industry average score stood at 56/100, Formula E secured first place with an 85/100 score, surpassing Borussia Dortmund by four percentage points. The assessment analyzed hundreds of data points across 78 organizations from 11 countries, encompassing entities such as Formula 1 (64/100), NFL (33/100), NBA (40/100), and FIFA (59/100).
ESG in Sports
Recent GSBS reports highlight broader trends, including a 7% increase in organizations adopting renewable energy systems and an 11% rise in transparency through sustainability data disclosure, though mental health support for athletes declined by 9%. Other leagues show progress: the NBA reduced aviation miles by 50,000 and plastic bottle use by 80% in offices via its NBA Green initiative, with arenas like the Golden State Warriors achieving LEED Gold certification for 31% water and 35% energy savings. MLB’s Minnesota Twins earned 29 GOAL Medals in 2024 for ESG leadership, while FC Barcelona’s environmental performance aligns with industry averages amid ongoing improvements in data reporting.
The GSBS evaluation covered 61 clubs, franchises, and teams, plus 17 associations, leagues, competitions, and venues spanning motorsport, football, tennis, American football, baseball, basketball, ice hockey, handball, and contact sports—representing peak CESG performance in professional sports. The full report is accessible on the GSBS website here.
Julia Pallé, Vice President, Sustainability, Formula E, said: “We’re delighted to be independently ranked as the number one ESG sport on the planet for the fourth year running. Our dedication to ensuring everything is as sustainable as possible, from how we engage with communities at race locations, continually reducing our carbon footprint, to the makeup and diversity of our organisation and championship, is paying off.
“But as with previous years, this is a mission without a finish line, and we must all continually do our best day in, day out to accelerate sustainable human progress. I’m proud that the reason behind our racing is being recognised, but most importantly that it is having a true impact, and I hope it will inspire the rest of the sports community to follow our commitment.”
Christian Hartmann, CEO, Global Sustainability Benchmark in Sports (GSBS) said: “Formula E continues to lead the way in one of the most competitive global industries – now for the fourth consecutive year. Every year, when we review their data, it becomes clear that they have already moved ahead, continually advancing their practices and strengthening their approach to sustainability.
“This forward-driven mindset is not only impressive in itself – it is the foundation that naturally produces the depth, breadth and quality of results reflected in their annual GSBS performance. Formula E remains a powerful source of inspiration for us and for the wider sports ecosystem.”
