F1 Powerboats Battle on the Colorado

Five colorful F1 powerboats race across Lake Marble Falls, creating white spray trails behind them. Trees and grassy banks are visible in the background under Colorado’s sunny sky.
F1 powerboat racing premiered on Lake Marble Falls in 2025. Photo by Stacee Hopkins

Lake Marble Falls is about to see a showdown. Formula One powerboat racing returns to Marble Falls for the second year with the Battle on the Colorado slated for June 5-7, 2026.

The event will showcase “outboard circuit racing at its finest” as the powerful-yet-light F1 boats cut through the water at top speeds of 120 mph and then turn on a dime. The Lake Marble Falls race is one of six in the series, during which drivers pick up points as they speed toward the championship.

The event includes three classes of powerboats on the Marble Falls stop:

  • F1—The star of the show and the fastest, going from zero to 100 mph in less than 5 seconds. The 1,500-pound boats can literally fly if not kept under the control of an experienced driver. 
  • Formula Light—Similar in looks to an F1 boat but smaller and less powerful, speeding along the water at around 70 mph.
  • Tri Hull—The most physical of the boats. They bump and bang into each other as they race for the finish line. Drivers are protected by a roll cage and a harness.
F1 powerboats with drivers race on Lake Marble Falls, creating white trails in the water. Yellow buoys mark the course, while green hills dotted with houses form a scenic backdrop.
Tri-hulls bump and bang into each other as they race for the finish line. Drivers are protected by a roll cage and a harness. Photo by Stacee Hopkins

Unlike previous boat races held on Lake Marble Falls, the F1 boats race against each other on a course. The Battle on the Colorado is more than a race, it’s a spectacle. F1-fueled fans and the curious alike should get their money’s worth as they watch the action from the viewing areas at Lakeside Park, 306 Buena Vista Drive in Marble Falls.

Drivers will test the waters of Lake Marble Falls on Friday, June 5, during a test and tune, which fans can watch for free. Following test and tune is a free, high-energy, live music show in the Marble Falls Summer Concert Series featuring 80s rock tribute band Hair Metal Giants. The hardcore racing takes place Saturday-Sunday, June 6-7, and requires tickets. Tickets are available online. 

  • General admission day passes are $20 for ages 9 and older, $10 for ages 65 and older as well as veterans and first responders with proof of ID, and free for kids 8 and younger.
  • Those wanting the best views and perks can pick from several VIP packages starting at $125.

Visit the F1 Powerboat Championship series website for racing rules, videos of previous events, and the 2026 series schedule. 

The Battle on the Colorado is in partnership with the Marble Falls/Highland Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. Visit the chamber’s website for a ticket link, an event map, and a Q&A for spectators.

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