Battling Brit Jake Dennis wins Formula E title in London

LONDON: Second place for Jake Dennis in an eventful Hankook London E-Prix was enough to win the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship with a race to spare on Saturday night, becoming the first British driver to claim a world title at home.

Dennis survived heavy pressure from his closest rival and polesitter Nick Cassidy (Envision Racing) as well as two red flags to become Formula E’s first British world champion.

The title is Avalanche Andretti’s first in Formula E — the American team having been a part of the series from day one — and Dennis’ first FIA world championship title.

“I am lost for words, honestly. It means so much to me, the boys standing out there, we have had everything thrown at us, honestly it felt like everyone was racing against us — but we have just become world champion. I am so happy for myself, the team, everyone — we deserve this so much,” Dennis said.

“I only joined this championship three years ago, we almost won in our rookie year but now to come back and have the year that we have had, breaking all the podium records,” he said. “To become world champion is mind-blowing, I really didn’t think it could happen coming into this year, but full credit to my boys. I love them so much, they have given me an absolute rocket ship all year, this is the least I could do for them.

“I could hear the fans as well, it is absolutely incredible to share this moment with them.”

The Briton headed into the race 24 points clear of Nick Cassidy, who picked up three points before the race began by earning Julius Bar pole position.

The Kiwi led the early stages before ceding top spot to eventual winner and countryman Evans on Lap 11 and second spot to teammate Sebastien Buemi.

Dennis had earlier made it past