The ABB FIA Formula E championship is currently in Mexico for this weekend’s race. Mercedes driver Stoffel Vandoorne heads into the race as the championship leader, in spite of not winning a race. However, at a shortened version of the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, the Belgian driver had a massive moment.
His Mercedes got a wheel on the grass, befor it pitched sideways. Luckily, he was able to save the car and avoid hitting the barrier. The incident took place during the practice session, and he continued on, unscathed.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B8lyWIzFLDs/
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
How did Stoffel Vandoorne do in qualifying?
However, his qualifying was rather poor, as he ended up 11th fastest. The good news for him is that he will advance two places, owing to penalties to the Mahindra duo. Apparently, the Indian team had to change the gearbox on both cars. So, not only will they start last, but cop a 10-second time penalty and a drive-through.
Meanwhile, Porsche’s Andre Lotterer took the team’s maiden pole position, ahead of Mitch Evans, and a newly promoted Nyck de Vries. Now, Stoffel Vandoorne has it all to do from 9th place on the grid. However, given the unpredictability of Formula E, anything can happen.
Strategy will also be crucial here, especially with regard to using the 2 Attack Modes. Also, since there are no pit stops, the Attack Mode doubles as the strategic element. This is coupled with all 24 drivers managing their battery life and not run outbefore the finish.
Pascal Wehrlein found that out the hard way, when he was close to winning. However, his Mahindra ran out of energy, and Audi’s Lucas di Grassi overtook him right on the finish line. In addition to that, the penalty for running out before the finish line, is a drop down the order. Many drivers have won and lost race victories in this manner.
