Lucas di Grassi, Sébastien Buemi or even Sam Bird – who will be the new Formula E Champion? The question will be answered next weekend when the electric racing series stages its final two races in London. Team ABT Schaeffler Audi Sport has prepared meticulously for the showdown, which is broadcast live on DMAX on Saturday and Sunday.
The outset before the last two races of the current season could not be more volatile and exciting: after seven podium finishes and three wins, ABT Schaeffler Audi Sport driver Lucas di Grassi leads the standings by one point from Renault driver Sébastien Buemi. Including the points for fastest race laps and pole positions, there are still another 60 points up for grabs in London, which is why the third placed Sam Bird only really has a mathematical chance of winning the title.
Venue of the showdown is, like last year, Battersea Park in the heart of London directly alongside the Thames. The drivers complete two full race days here on Saturday and Sunday with practice, qualifying and race within just a few hours. The 2.925 kilometer long track is extremely tight and narrow and provides very few places to overtake – which is why qualifying could be more important than ever before. The unsettled weather forecast could add even more spice to the title battle.
Title candidate Lucas di Grassi is keeping his cool. “We have done everything that we could do: we have prepared perfectly, our engineers and mechanics are highly motivated, we are all committed to the cause,” says the Brazilian who was third overall last year. “Our goal is clear: we aim to perform at our best and make no mistakes. We have a good team and wonderful partners. We have the chance to achieve something big in London.”
Team mate Daniel Abt also has a clear vision for the weekend. “The more points I can take from the competition the better it is for Lucas in the title battle,” says the 23-year old and youngest driver in the field. Abt has already mounted the podium twice this year, most recently at his home race in Berlin. Also a reason why ABT Schaeffler Audi Sport is only eleven points behind in the team classification and still has a chance of taking the spoils. “The party on the Formula E podium is indescribable. Of course my great dream is to spray the champagne on the podium again in London.”
A one point lead, a tricky circuit, danger of unsettled weather – just what appeals to Hans-Jürgen Abt. “It goes without saying that the pressure is enormous – but this is exactly what we thrive on. This is the reason why we are passionate racers,” says the Team Boss. “With just one point separating the drivers there can be no favorites. It’ll be a question of who does the best job on Saturday and Sunday, and to this end I have absolute confidence in my team and the two drivers.”
The races in London start on Saturday and Sunday at 16:00 local time (17:00 German time). DMAX broadcasts live from Great Britain’s capital on both days starting at 16:45.
