The ABB FIA Formula E Championship has confirmed that the all-electric single seater series will return to the streets of London from Season Six following the announcement of a multi-year deal.
Racing at the ExCel Arena, the circuit will feature 23 corners, running both internally and externally at the venue while running alongside the Royal Victoria Dock, just off the river Thames.
Formula E previously raced in London in its first and second seasons of competition, with the circuit running through Battersea Park before being scrapped for Season Three.
Since the scrapping of the London E-Prix after the 2016 event, it has been Formula E's top priority to return to the UK capital and founder and CEO of the series, Alejandro Agag, hailed the announcement of a 2020 race as an exciting opportunity:
“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," he said.
“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, ExCeL London, added: “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.”
As the new home of Formula E in London, the championship's deal with the ExCel marks a multi-year agreement that will see the fully-electric series compete in the city from the 2019/20 season and beyond.
Formula E's present Season Five campaign will continue on March 10 with the Hong Kong E-Prix.
Discussion about this post