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Racing driver Sam Bird today promised that this weekend’s Formula E street race in London would have “more overtaking than a whole season of Formula One”.

Bird, 29, is hoping for a triumphant end to his season with a home win in the ePrix in Battersea Park on Saturday and Sunday.

The Roehampton-born driver will be cheered on by his partner Holly Christie, her two sons and other family members and friends as he tries to secure third spot for the season for himself and his team.

Last year, he took first place in London and is hoping for a repeat performance. He promised fans a spectacle during the two races, which will also feature former Formula One drivers including Sébastien Buemi and Nelson Piquet Jr. Bird said: “There’s more overtaking and racing in one Formula E than in a whole season of Formula One. The fact so many other cities are interested in hosting races shows that things are going well.

“We will never rival Formula One, as it will always have its place. However, we are the only electric series and we are taken very seriously.”

This weekend could be the last chance for Londoners to watch the fledgling motorsport after the capital was taken off next year’s calendar.

The sport has gained popularity since its inaugural season in 2014-15 and Bird said he hoped the race could return to the capital.

He said: “People should come down to see a fun and exciting spectacle and a race that’s completely green and perfect for the environment.” The electric-powered Formula E cars can hit 140mph and accelerate from 0-60 in three seconds.

Ten teams, including Bird’s DS Virgin Racing, have been fighting it out in eight cities, including Beijing, Buenos Aires, Paris and Berlin, since the season began last October.

It is the second time the race has been staged at the Battersea Park City Circuit, which Bird said was “quick” and “challenging” in some areas, including a fast chicane.

Bird said: “Racing a street circuit in London is great. I’m used to Silverstone and, earlier, Brands Hatch. But if I can get a repeat of last year it would be unbelievable. It was a very special day last year.”

To buy tickets for the Visa London ePrix on July 2 and 3, visit fiaformulae.com/en/tickets Under-16s go free.