Formula E: What will become of the Swiss ePrix?
The Swiss ePrix should already be on the Formula E calendar for the 2015/ 2016 season. But it is not to be found there, nor for the 2016/2017 season. What will now become of the Swiss ePrix? In spring 2015, an exclusive contract was already signed with Lugano as the venue for the Swiss ePrix. Trulli Formula E owner and driver Jarno [...]
In spring 2015, an exclusive contract was already signed with Lugano to host the Swiss ePrix. Trulli Formula E owner and driver Jarno Trulli, as well as co-owner Francesco Guarnieri, Formula E boss Alejandro Agag and the mayor of Lugano Marco Borradori wrapped up the details at their second meeting. The track layout, the pit lane and the media center were announced.
But shortly before the "hot phase" began, Lugano's most important sponsor withdrew and there was also headwind from politics. There was talk of a "too tight schedule" and the "unsuitable city center as a venue".
ePrix from Lugano to Zurich
Thus, Lugano was out of the race and the effort seemingly in vain. Shortly thereafter, Zurich seemed to present a possible alternative. On May 29, "e-mobil Züri", a non-profit association, was founded. This association was to actively support the cause of the Swiss ePrix. In a lively exchange with Lugano, Zurich was to benefit from the experience gained. In July 2015, Zurich then submitted its candidacy to host the Formula E race. The possible race track was to be located in front of the Enge harbor and have a length of 3.029 km.
But there were other hurdles: Finally, there was the general ban on circuit racing. The Swiss Federal Council removed this in December 2015 and granted the necessary exceptional permission within the framework of the Formula E championship to allow circuit races.
No news
So the way seems clear for the Swiss ePrix. But why is the Swiss ePrix not on the Formula E calendar either this season or next? Formula E says: "A Swiss ePrix was never planned for the current season. And no new tracks, except Hong Kong, have been presented for the upcoming season."
AutoSprintCH would have liked to know more, but the "e-mobil Züri" association has not responded to requests to date.
Further facts and details have not yet become public. All efforts and tracks seem to come to nothing, the project Swiss ePrix is probably not under a good star. In conclusion, the question remains: What will become of the Swiss ePrix?
www.emobil-zueri.ch
swisseprix.ch
www.fiaformulae.com
Photo: FIA Formula E
