Formula E's title decider at the ExCeL in London was a controversial affair, with team orders and strategic moves taking center stage. The event, which concluded the 2025-26 season, left many fans and drivers questioning the integrity of the sport.
The Team Orders Debacle
Pascal Wehrlein, the factory Porsche driver, voiced his concerns about rival manufacturers' tactics to manipulate the championship fight. His interview with Autosport highlighted a growing issue in Formula E, where team orders seemed to override fair competition.
The incident in Tokyo, where Sebastien Buemi slowed down to assist his teammate, Joel Eriksson, was a prime example. This move not only affected Wehrlein's race but also set a precedent for the upcoming title decider.
A Manipulated Outcome
Wehrlein's predictions came true as team orders played a significant role in deciding the championship. The qualifying session on Saturday set the tone, with Porsche's Nico Muller's performance benefiting Wehrlein. The all-Porsche showdown in the final saw Muller holding up the pack, allowing Wehrlein to build a comfortable lead.
The Jaguar-Porsche Rivalry
The rivalry between Jaguar and Porsche added an extra layer of drama. Jaguar's Antonio Felix da Costa, in a bid to help his teammate Mitch Evans, employed aggressive tactics to hold up Wehrlein. This move, while controversial, showcased the intensity of the competition.
A Title Decided by Chaos
The second race saw more chaos, with da Costa's go-slow strategy and Wehrlein's desperate move on Jake Dennis. The incident between Wehrlein and Dennis, which resulted in a spin for Dennis' teammate Eriksson, ultimately decided the championship.
Unsportsmanlike Conduct
The aftermath of the race revealed a bitter taste. Dennis accused Wehrlein of taking him out, while Wehrlein claimed da Costa's driving was unsportsmanlike. The Jaguar-Porsche rivalry, fueled by personal enmities, overshadowed the racing itself.
A Lesson for the Sport
This title decider serves as a reminder that Formula E needs to strike a balance between strategic moves and fair competition. While team tactics are a part of the sport, the line between strategy and manipulation is thin.
Looking Ahead
As Formula E ushers in its Gen4 era, the sport must learn from incidents like these. The move to Brands Hatch for the London E-Prix next season could bring a fresh start, ensuring that the focus returns to racing rather than team orders.
