London has been named as the host city for the 2015 Race of Champions event that pits racing drivers from an array of different series up against each other in a multi-discipline challenge.
The Race of Champions graced London back in 2007 and 2008 at Wembley Stadium, and has since been held in Dusseldorf, Beijing, Bangkok and Bushy Park, Barbados.
However, the event will return to London in 2015 at the stadium used to host the 2012 Olympic Games, which is now being used as a multi-purpose sporting venue.
Taking place on November 20 and 21, drivers from Formula 1, rallying, touring cars and other championships will race against each other in both team and individual events.
Last year’s winner David Coulthard was on hand to announce the news, and is confident that it will be one of the best ROC events to date.
“It’s fantastic that the Race Of Champions is coming to London,” Coulthard said. “Each of the events has been special in its own way but with so much racing heritage in the UK and as a Brit myself, to host it here in an iconic venue like the former Olympic Stadium is a big deal.
“I’m sure it will be the best one so far. There seem to be some people who aren’t enjoying this Formula 1 season as much as previous years. If they want to rediscover the reason why they enjoy motor sport, they should come along to the Race Of Champions.
“The stadium environment is what makes it special. You look down on the cars from the grandstands so it gives you a view you wouldn’t get in many venues. When it comes to getting so close to the action, the nearest thing would be Monaco in F1.”
ROC president Fredrik Johansson was pleased to formally confirm that London would be hosting the event, believing that the event will once again welcome an array of motorsport stars.
“We are thrilled to be bringing the Race Of Champions back to London in such an iconic venue,” Johansson said. “The former Olympic Stadium is a stunning location and we have grabbed this chance to offer people a last chance to see it before it closes for eight months for more reconstruction.
“That means the only available date is slightly earlier than usual for ROC but we know we will put together another truly exceptional list of participants from the world’s main motor sport series. Now we look forward to welcoming a packed crowd to enjoy the sight of some of the world’s best drivers battling it out in this glorious arena.”
The Olympic Stadium is poised to host games for the Rugby World Cup later this year ahead of the Race of Champions, and will then be closed for redevelopment as it becomes the new home of soccer club West Ham United.