OLIVER Rowland’s chances of winning the Formula E title are all but over after illness ruled him out of the latest meeting.

The 30-year-old from Penistone experienced dizziness and nausea last week while preparing for the penultimate meeting of the season in Portland, USA.

Rowland - who has been competing near the top of the standings all season - was unable to race and dropped down a place to fifth.

He is 36 points off top and, with two races left in London later this month and 25 points for a win, his chances of winning the title are extremely slim.

A team statement read: “Oliver Rowland will not compete in this weekend’s Portland E-Prix double-header due to illness.

The team’s reserve and simulator driver, Caio Collet, will step into car #22 instead.

“The whole team wishes Oli a quick recovery and to see him back in action in London next month.”

Rowland’s replacement Caio Collet said: “I feel really sorry for Oliver, he’s one of the best drivers that I came across and fighting for the championship. I think this situation is really unfortunate for him.”

Tommaso Volpe, managing director and team principal, said: “Overall it was a tough weekend and it was also a shame not to have Oli with us.

“We all wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to having him back in London next month.”