Oliver Rowland has been ruled out of the 2024 Portland E-Prix due to illness.

The Nissan driver, who has been in contention for the title, will miss both races this weekend at the Portland International Raceway, a setback that all but ends his chances of clinching the championship.

Nissan confirmed the news in an official statement: “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 the #22 instead. The whole team wishes Oli a quick recovery and to see him back in action in London next month.”

Rowland’s absence from the Portland races means he will not score any points, a crucial loss with only two races remaining in the season, that will take place in London on the 20th and 21st of July. His inability to compete significantly hampers his position in the standings, as he currently sits third in the drivers’ standings.

Stepping in for Rowland is Brazilian driver Caio Collet, who serves as Nissan’s reserve and simulator driver. The Brazilian will make his debut in Formula E this weekend, taking the wheel of the #22 car for the double-header event in Portland. The young driver will be looking to make an impression in his unexpected opportunity.

With Rowland’s absence, the title looks like it will be between Nick Cassidy, Mitch Evans and Pascal Wehrlein.