Why one final Formula E London controversy is inevitable in title fight finale

Say the words London ExCeL to pretty much anyone within the Formula E paddock, and the response is a nervous laugh. Everyone has learnt what to expect from the quirky indoor/outdoor venue, and everyone knows it is the one circuit where absolutely nothing can be ruled out.

No Formula E venue has arguably delivered as much chaos and controversy as the ExCeL, and with the upcoming season finale marking its final time hosting the all-electric series, it would be foolish to expect anything to change now.

Throw into the mix that, for the third time in the last four seasons, the drivers' title will once again be decided in London. Grab your popcorn, because one final London shock feels almost inevitable.

The ExCeL has featured on the calendar as a double-header since Season 7 (2021), but will be replaced by Brands Hatch from next year, with it no longer being considered safe or suitable for the all-powerful Gen4 car, which is being introduced next season.

It is nevertheless a clear fan favourite and always produces strong crowds. It would be easy to assume that, with the upcoming event being its last, the biggest London attendance yet could be in store.

From a media perspective, it is the right time to move on from the ExCeL, with its poor track viewing and the sheer distance between the paddock and the media centre also being a bugbear for the drivers, who must make the trek for press conferences and the media pen.

However, London has delivered huge stories time and time again, and with nine drivers – yes, nine! – still mathematically in title contention, more drama can be expected.

Realistically, it is a four-way title fight. Jake Dennis leads Mitch Evans by two points, Pascal Wehrlein is five adrift, while reigning world champion Oliver Rowland is lurking 14 points behind. With 58 points on offer, a fitting farewell to Gen3 and the ExCeL is guaranteed.

Despite the nerves, anxiety and anticipation of pure London chaos being alive in the paddock, there is also a burning excitement, knowing that an epic climax awaits.

Two big questions remain: Who will be crowned world champion, and will we get the biggest London controversy yet? 

From Lucas di Grassi driving through the pit lane to go from eighth to first behind the safety car in 2021 – before later being disqualified – to Jaguar's 2024 radio implosion, expect the unexpected in the British capital!