In a thrilling display of skill and strategy, Sam Bird secured McLaren's inaugural Formula E victory at the Sao Paulo E-Prix. Bird's daring maneuver on the last lap saw him overtake Mitch Evans of Jaguar, marking McLaren's first win in the series. This triumph ended Bird's winless streak dating back to the 2021 New York E-Prix, comprising 37 races.
Podium Drama: Nissan's Strong Showing
Nissan's Oliver Rowland clinched third place in a dramatic finish, executing a remarkable last-corner pass to secure a podium finish. With two Nissan-powered cars on the podium, including McLaren, it showcased the prowess of their powertrains in Formula E.
Mahindra's Disappointment: Points Elude Them
Despite a promising start with improved qualifying performances, Mahindra Racing failed to score any points in the race. Both drivers, Edoardo Mortara and Nyck de Vries, encountered issues during the race, hampering their chances of a podium finish. This disappointment was echoed by Mahindra Racing CEO Frederic Bertrand, highlighting the team's frustration at missing out on potential points.
Jehan Daruvala's Learning Curve
Maserati's Jehan Daruvala, the sole rookie in the Formula E grid, faced challenges in the competitive field. Despite difficulties in the race, Daruvala managed to gain positions on the final lap, finishing in 15th place. Reflecting on the experience, Daruvala emphasized the learning opportunities offered by participating in Formula E races.
Championship Standings: Cassidy's Lead Narrows
The championship landscape witnessed a significant shift as Nick Cassidy, the leader, crashed out during the race. This misfortune narrowed his lead to just four points ahead of Pascal Wehrlein. With Mitch Evans trailing closely behind, the championship battle promises intense competition in the upcoming races.
Next Stop: Tokyo E-Prix
With the Sao Paulo E-Prix concluded, the Formula E circuit now turns its attention to the inaugural Tokyo E-Prix scheduled for March 30th. As teams prepare for the challenges of a new circuit, anticipation mounts for another thrilling round of electric racing action.