Jack AmeyLondon will host the finale of the 2019/20 FIA Formula E season with the race to take place at ExCeL London on a unique indoor/outdoor circuit.
A multi-year deal for the all-electric series to return to London has been reached after Battersea Park fell off the calendar at the end of Season 2.
The season-finale at ExCeL will be held on July 25 and 26 subject to circuit homologation and approval of the FIA World Motor Sport Council.
The 23-turn circuit will include a stretch alongside the waterfront as well as a starting grid inside ExCeL and stretch for 2.4km in and around the Royal Docks – which includes ExCeL.
“I’m extremely excited to be bringing the ABB FIA Formula E Championship and electric racing back to the UK,” said Formula E CEO Alejandro Agag.
“Every motorsport series would love to host an event in London – this has been our desire for quite some time now and we’re delighted to have found a new home in the Royal Docks at ExCeL London. We have a growing base of knowledgeable and passionate fans in the UK, and this race adds to a fantastic summer of sport as a world-class event we hope Londoners can be proud of.
“Formula E coming back to the UK extends beyond pure racing excitement, it’s also a strong message for London to tackle inner-city air pollution by promoting clean technologies and electric sustainable mobility.”
Jeremy Rees, CEO of ExCeL London said it was an honour to bring the world’s first indoor/outdoor race to the Royal Docks including ExCeL.
He said: “It’s an honour to welcome the world’s first ever indoor and outdoor race to ExCeL London and the Royal Docks. Events at ExCeL are thriving and London provides the perfect backdrop to host global entertainment brands, such as Formula E.
“We look forward to working closely with Formula E to showcase the versatility of our venue, creating a truly unique experience for teams, drivers and spectators. Hosting this event, is also closely aligned with our vision to create a more sustainable venue, in the heart of one of the most exciting destinations and best connected cities in the world.”
Battersea Park hosted a double-header season finale for the first two seasons of Formula E and was the location where Nelson Piquet was crowned the inaugural champion. The following season’s title decider was secured by Renault e.dams’ Sebastien Buemi, who won by setting the fastest lap of the race.
Buemi and his title rival Lucas di Grassi clashed on the opening lap of the title-deciding race, with both sustaining damage.
Complaints from local residents meant the venue was removed from the calendar two years into the five-year contract.
Bethonie Waring
[…] The season ends with a double header in London, which will be held at the ExCel exhibition centre. […]