Formula E: Bird says Virgin success will be worth the weight

Motorsport fans enjoying the Formula E series finale in London this weekend will be relieved the weather looks set to stay dry – but not as relieved as British driver Sam Bird (pictured).

Bird, currently third in the drivers’ championship, has struggled with the weight of his DS Virgin Racing car this season, and he believes a dry weekend will give him the best chance of a podium finish or two.

There has never been a wet Formula E race and rain would certainly mix up the grid, but Bird said: ‘With the weight of our car, rain would only make it more difficult to win.

‘Although, mathematically, I could still win the title, that is not a realistic goal this weekend.

‘My goal is to maintain third in both the drivers’ and constructors’ championships, and I need a good finish to ensure that.’

It speaks volumes for both Bird and the Virgin team that they have managed to stay in the top three despite running a car that is heavy compared with other leading teams.

Bird has confirmed he will stay with the Virgin team for Formula E’s third season, and he expects big improvements to his car.

‘The priority is working on our weight for season three and I expect to be far more competitive for DS Virgin Racing,’ he said.

This season has come down to a two-horse finale between Sebastien Buemi and Lucas di Grassi, but it has not been without glory for Bird as well.

He said: ‘My three pole positions have been strong but the highlight of the year was definitely my win in Argentina, despite having a massive weight disadvantage to ABT Audi and Renault e.Dams.’

Bird’s home is in Teeside and London is his home race, which makes the uncertainty surrounding the London ePrix all the more worrying for him.

He said: ‘It’s a shame that this will be the last ePrix we see at Battersea but Formula E is still speaking to London.

‘I hope the series retains its links here – we need to give fans a good show.’

Formula E boss Alejandro Agag (pictured with Bird) has been in talks with London officials this week as he tries to find a new street circuit in the city, after a sustained campaign by Battersea residents forced organisers to rule out Battersea Park as a venue for any more races.

Mr Agag, who is based in London, said earlier this week that London Mayor Sadiq Khan is enthusiastic about hosting races in the future and work is ongoing to identify a street circuit that could incorporate some of the city’s most famous landmarks.