Author: jonathan townsley

A solid start to the weekend in Berlin for Envision Racing’s super subs

Joel Eriksson and Paul Aron performed well in the opening race of the Berlin E-Prix weekend with Aron running in the points to cap a mature and speedy display

With Envision Racing’s regular chargers Sébastien Buemi and Robin Frijns occupied by the World Endurance Championship this weekend, it was left to a Formula E returnee and a rookie to take the wheel for the team at the Berlin E-Prix for the opening race of the double-header weekend. 

And after 46 laps of the punishing Tempelhof Airport Street Circuit, Joel Eriksson drove like an experienced hand on his Formula E return, running in the points until an early race retirement ended his first outing of the weekend. His team-mate Paul Aron was left to lead the Envision Racing charge, and performed superbly.

The Estonian ended his maiden E-Prix 13th, mixing it with the big boys, and narrowly missing out on the points only after suffering late contact.

Eriksson started the first race of the weekend in 18th, with Aron one place behind. By the end of the opening lap the field was headed by polesitter Edoardo Mortara, with Erikson holding 17th, and Aron 19th.

By the second lap, Eriksson moved up to 15th as Mortara led Stoffel Vandoorne and Jean-Éric Vergne. Two laps later Envision Racing’s debutant looked comfortable in 16th with Attack Mode taken. By lap five, the Swedish racer claimed 14th place, which soon became 13th with a fastest lap to boot, as team-mate Aron held 17th. On lap eight Eriksson hit the points by claiming 10th as Vergne cycled to the lead, followed by team-mate Vandoorne.

Eriksson’s return to Formula E came to a halt on lap 10, triggering a lengthy safety car period. At the restart, the only remaining Envision Racing machine, piloted by Aron, found itself in 15th.

By lap 20 of the originally scheduled 40 lap duration, Aron remained in 15th, running ahead of Jake Hughes in the McLaren, as the multi-car battle at the sharp end of the field really started to heat up.

Retirements and pit stops promoted Aron to 12th by lap 22, which became 11th one lap later – with a points-paying finish just one place further up the road. Six laps later, the Envision Racing driver took Attack Mode, dropping to 12th, but crucially maintained contact with the frantically battling top 10.

An incident for Maximilian Günther allowed Aron to sneak up into ninth before a second safety car was called. At the restart, the scrap for first somehow intensified, with multiple lead changes. Behind the chaos, Aron moved up to eighth as the leaders all tripped over  themselves.

After jumping between eighth, ninth and 10th position, Aron found himself 14th on lap 40, as six laps were added to the initial E-Prix duration. On lap 42, Aron was involved in contact with Jehan Daruvala, losing his front wing, yet gained a few places to claim 11th.

With three laps remaining, Aron moved into the points, taking 10th place, and suddenly the Estonian driver found himself in eighth place as Jaguar’s Nick Cassidy moved into the lead as the laps wound down.

Starting the final lap, Aron dropped to ninth, behind Mortara and in front of Sacha Fenestraz, who passed the Envision Racing driver, forcing him to settle for 13th at the flag.

Up front, Cassidy claimed the win ahead of Vergne and Oliver Rowland.

Drivers’ standings (after Rd 9):
1. Nick Cassidy, 121pts
2. Pascal Wehrlein, 112pts
3. Oliver Rowland, 103pts
4. Jake Dennis, 89pts
5. Mitch Evans, 89pts
14. Robin Frijns, 21pts
15. Sébastien Buemi, 20pts

Teams’ standings (after Rd 9):
1. Jaguar TCS Racing, 210pts
2. Porsche Formula E Team, 146pts
3. Nissan, 129pts
4. DS Penske, 126pts
5. Andretti Formula E 113, pts
8. Envision Racing, 41pts

New driver line-up for Envision Racing as team looks to bounce back in Berlin

Calendar clash means that two new drivers will lead the challenge at the Berlin E-Prix

This year marks the 10th time the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship has raced in Berlin, and it is all change for Envision Racing in the German capital – albeit only temporarily.

Envision Racing will be making adjustments to its driver line-up for Rounds 9 and 10 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship in Berlin due to a scheduling clash with the FIA World Endurance Championship.

This conflict primarily impacts Round 9, as regulations prevent Sebastien Buemi and Robin Frijns from competing in both events on the same weekend. Although unable to race on Sunday, both drivers will be present in Berlin to support the team.

To fill the gaps, Envision Racing is excited to have Joel Eriksson and Paul Aron at the wheel for both Berlin races.

WHO IS IN FOR BERLIN?

Joel Eriksson (25): Currently honing his skills as Jaguar TCS Racing’s Test, Simulator and Reserve Driver, Eriksson steps up to race for Envision in Berlin thanks to a release agreement from Jaguar.

This Swedish racer, familiar with Envision from 2018 testing, brings valuable experience with eight Formula E races under his belt. Additionally, his knowledge of the cutting-edge GEN3 car and Jaguar powertrain will be a major advantage.

Paul Aron (20): A rising star scorching the Formula 2 scene this season, Aron joins the team while sitting in second place in the standings in Formula 1’s feeder series.

The young Estonian talent has already secured three podium finishes in his debut F2 season, marking him as a future force. His raw talent and impressive results inject a thrilling dose of youthful promise into the Envision Racing lineup.

THE CHALLENGE IN BERLIN

The Berlin E-Prix double-header marks the start of the second half of the 2023–24 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship and Envision Racing will be looking to score some vital points after a disappointing series of races.

The E-Prix gets a thrilling shakeup for Season 10 with a revamped Tempelhof Airport circuit. The iconic start/finish straight takes a dramatic shift, relocating to the opposite side of the historic concrete apron.

This change throws a unique challenge at the teams. The Tempelhof surface, a series of industrial concrete slabs designed for aircraft, rather than nimble electric racers, is notoriously abrasive. This translates to a demanding race for both drivers and engineers.

Managing energy consumption will be paramount, as the highly-grippy surface chews through tyre life. Throw in scorching summer temperatures, and Berlin promises a true test of skill and strategy.

However, the revamped layout isn’t all about headaches for the teams. The flowing circuit, known for its action-packed battles, retains its character.

Expect plenty of passing opportunities as drivers wrestle their machines around the unforgiving concrete jungle, making the Berlin E-Prix a fan and driver favourite.

WHEN TO WATCH THE BERLIN E-PRIX

(All times BST)
Round 9
Free Practice 1
Friday 10 May – 15:55 – 16:45

Free Practice 2
Saturday 11 May – 06:55 – 07:45

Qualifying
Saturday 11 May – 09:20 – 10:43

E-Prix
Saturday 11 May 14:03 – 15:00

Round 10
Free Practice 3
Friday 12 May – 07:00 – 07:30

Qualifying
Saturday 12 May – 09:20 – 10:43

E-Prix
Saturday 12 May 14:03 – 15:00

Drivers’ standings (after Rd 8):
1. Pascal Wehrlein, 102pts
2. Nick Cassidy, 95pts
3. Jake Dennis, 89pts
4. Oliver Rowland, 88pts
5. Mitch Evans, 77pts
14. Robin Frijns, 21pts
15. Sébastien Buemi, 20pts

Teams’ standings (after Rd 8):
1. Jaguar TCS Racing, 172pts
2. Porsche Formula E Team, 109pts
3. Andretti Formula E 113, pts
4. Nissan, 112pts
5. DS Penske, 102pts
8. Envision Racing, 41pts

No points in Monaco for Envision Racing

The reigning world champions endured a difficult Monaco E-Prix with both cars suffering damage and ending up outside the points at the finish

A strong qualifying performance from Sébastien Buemi meant the Swiss driver started the Monaco E-Prix in sixth, and by the time the pack filtered into and out of the opening right-handed Sainte Devote turn, the Envision Racing driver found himself in seventh.

Starting ninth, team-mate Robin Frijns also dropped a position – running 10th as Pascal Wehrlein headed the field.

After a relatively clean start and opening lap, a distinct energy saving formation was adopted by the entire pack with little movement in positions, or hints of any overtaking attempts. On lap four, Frijns made his way back into the top 10 after momentarily dropping down to 11th before it all went wrong for Buemi.

Following a multi-car melee at the hairpin, Buemi was forced partially airbourne and into Monaco’s unforgiving barriers. Buemi’s misfortune actually aided Frijns who made it through the chaos and up into seventh. Moments later, a safety car was triggered by a sizeable crash involving Edoardo Mortara at the Swimming Pool complex.

At the restart it was Stoffel Vandoorne up front, followed by the Jaguar pair of Mitch Evans and Nick Cassidy.

Running seventh, Envision Racing’s Frijns found himself following the Maserati of Maximilian Günther only to be relegated to ninth by lap 10.

Frijns gained a place as Jake Dennis suffered a front wing incident, before falling back down to 11th, in what was becoming a rollercoaster of a race for the Dutch driver. By lap 13 of the originally slated 29, Frijns found himself in 14th with Attack Mode enabled.

Despite Buemi’s earlier incident, the Envision Racing driver battled his way back to 18th by lap 15, and due to the close-knit nature of the racing, had closed up to within sight of the midfield runners. Buemi would soon become the leading Envision Racing machine, as Frijns was forced to pit with damage on lap 17.

Following an entertaining second half of the race, and a tight battle for the major points-paying positions, at the chequered flag, Buemi’s valiant recovery drive ended in 15th place. Envision Racing team-mate Frijns concluded his weekend on the Mediterranean coast in 17th.

At the front, Evans won from Jaguar team-mate Cassidy, with Vandoorne rounding out the podium places in third.  

Drivers’ standings (after Rd 8):
1. Pascal Wehrlein, 102pts
2. Nick Cassidy, 95pts
3. Jake Dennis, 89pts
4. Oliver Rowland, 88pts
5. Mitch Evans, 77pts
14. Robin Frijns, 21pts
15. Sébastien Buemi, 20pts

Teams’ standings (after Rd 8):
1. Jaguar TCS Racing, 172pts
2. Porsche Formula E Team, 109pts
3. Andretti Formula E 113, pts
4. Nissan, 112pts
5. DS Penske, 102pts
8. Envision Racing, 41pts

Envision Racing look to turn things around at historic Monaco

The Monaco E-Prix has provided a happy hunting ground for Envision Racing in previous years. Can the team taste success there in Season 10?

Following the championship-winning success of last year, the 2023–24 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship has been a tough one so far for Envision Racing. Following a pointless double-header weekend in Italy for the Misano E-Prix, the attention switches to arguably the most famous place in all of motorsport: Monaco.

As a venue, the Monaco street circuit needs little introduction. 

It is one of the oldest and most prestigious races, dating back to 1929, where drivers must negotiate the narrow, winding streets with tight corners which make it incredibly demanding. Taking place right by the harbour of Monte Carlo, surrounded by luxury yachts and casinos, it is a truly unique racing spectacle, and alongside the Indianapolis 500 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, makes up the Triple Crown of motorsport.

Initially hosted on a shortened version of the famous Monaco Grand Prix Formula One circuit, the current Gen 3 Formula E cars now do their thing on the full, 3.3km layout. And, last year, former Envision Racing driver Nick Cassidy claimed a memorable victory, something the team will be looking to repeat in 2024 to get a championship challenge back on track.

Current Envision Racing driver Sébastien Buemi has won the Monaco E-Prix twice on the famous streets of Monaco. Can the Swiss ace make it a hat-trick this year?

The challenge at Monaco 

For almost a century, corners, La Rascasse, Casino Square, and the Grand Hotel Hairpin have become woven into the fabric of motorsport. Like the Mount Rushmore of racing, these legendary streets were built for the raw thrill of Formula One, and now, they’re perfectly suited for the electrifying world of Formula E.

For the past two years, the Monaco E-Prix has been nothing short of breathtaking. Fans have witnessed wheel-to-wheel battles erupt, drivers fight tooth and nail to the finish, and audacious passes pulled off in the craziest places – inches apart while climbing the energy-sapping Beau Rivage hill.

The full 3.3km circuit, with its punishing climbs and exhilarating high-speed sections, returns to test the drivers’ energy management skills to the absolute limit.

In 2023, Envision Racing came home in front after a thrilling battle between Nick Cassidy and Jaguar’s Mitch Evans. Expect similar fireworks this year. 

World Exclusive: GEN3 Evo Race Car

The faster and more efficient GEN3 car was already tearing up the tracks around the world, but Formula E isn’t done yet. 

Formula E and the FIA are excited to announce the unveiling of the highly-anticipated GEN3 Evo race car. The exclusive evening launch will take place on Thursday, April 25th, in the lead-up to the 2024 Monaco E-Prix.

This means an even faster and more efficient version, the current GEN3 cars, that will be pushing the limits for drivers in Seasons 11 and 12. Get ready for even closer racing and some seriously impressive tech that will showcase how fast and cutting edge all-electric racing can be.

Last time out at the Misano E-Prix

It is safe to say that the inaugural Misano E-Prix was one to forget for Envision Racing. Despite strong pace in practice and Robin Frijns making the duels for race two, a double retirement in Sunday’s race capped a disappointing and ultimately pointless weekend in Italy.

Race one in Misano was electric chaos. Lead changes flew faster than sparks, positions swapped constantly, but after 28 laps of frantic racing, Envision Racing unfortunately came away empty-handed.

Race two proved to be a low point of the season, with both cars being forced to retire, but with seven races done and nine left  to run, starting with the Monaco E-Prix, there is plenty of points to be won.

When to catch the Monaco E-Prix

(All times BST)

Free Practice 1 Friday 27 April – 06:25 – 07:15

Free Practice 2 Saturday 27 April – 08:05 – 08:55

Qualifying Saturday 27 April – 09:40 – 11:03

E-Prix Saturday 27 April 14:03 – 15:30

Drivers’ standings (after Rd 7):

1. Pascal Wehrlein, 89pts
2. Jake Dennis, 89pts
3. Oliver Rowland, 80pts
4. Nick Cassidy, 76pts
5. Maximilian Günther, 65pts
12. Robin Frijns, 21pts
13. Sébastien Buemi, 20pts

Teams’ standings (after Rd 7):
1. Jaguar TCS Racing, 128pts
2. Andretti Formula E 112, pts
3. Porsche Formula E Team, 109pts
4. Nissan, 98pts
5. DS Penske, 73pts
8. Envision Racing, 41pts

A Misano E-Prix to forget as the focus turns to Monaco

A double retirement for Envision Racing brings the curtain down on a tough double-header weekend in Italy 

Retirement for Robin Frijns and Sébastien Buemi capped a disappointing inaugural Misano E-Prix weekend for Envision Racing, meaning the team leaves Italy and heads to the Monaco E-Prix without any points from the double-header.

In qualifying Group A on Sunday morning, Frijns drove superbly and progressed into the knockout phase. As team-mate Buemi settled for 17th on the grid, Frijns took on Nico Müller in the first quarter-final, however the Envision Racing man had no answer for the Swiss driver’s speed.

Frijns would ultimately have to take seventh on the grid for the second race of the weekend.

At the start of race two, Frijns made a solid start, maintaining seventh and looking to take sixth from Sam Bird as Jake Hughes led the opening lap from Jean-Éric Vergne. The opening laps saw a slightly less frantic make-up compared with the previous day’s competition, however the leading pack remained at close quarters.

By lap five, Frijns held 10th position as team-mate Buemi struggled to make progress down in 20th. One lap later, Frijns took his first Attack Mode phase as leader Nick Cassidy handed first position to Müller.

It all went wrong for Frijns on lap six. The Dutch driver found himself in the gravel trap and out of the race following contact with Sam Bird and António Félix da Costa, contact which unfortunately broke the front wing of the Envision Racing machine and seemed to leave parts lodged against the tyre.

This left Buemi as the sole Envision Racing driver in the race, and with the action hotting up in the battle for the lead between Müller, Pascal Wehrlein, Oliver Rowland, and Hughes, the Swiss driver made some progress, running 14th by lap 13 of 26.

Any hope of further gains ended on lap 15 as Buemi pitted and retired with damage to the car, closing the book on the hope of any points this year at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli.

Following an entertaining battle for the victory, leader Rowland dramatically slowed on the final lap, handing the victory to Wehrlein ahead of Dennis – with Cassidy clinching third right on the line from Müller.

Drivers’ standings (after Rd 7):

1. Pascal Wehrlein, 89pts
2. Jake Dennis, 89pts
3. Oliver Rowland, 80pts
4. Nick Cassidy, 76pts
5. Maximilian Günther, 65pts
12. Robin Frijns, 21pts
13. Sébastien Buemi, 20pts

Teams’ standings (after Rd 7):
1. Jaguar TCS Racing, 128pts
2. Andretti Formula E 112, pts
3. Porsche Formula E Team, 109pts
4. Nissan, 98pts
5. DS Penske, 73pts
8. Envision Racing, 41pts

Envision Racing miss out on points after afternoon of Misano madness

The first race of the weekend ended in disappointment for Envision Racing after a chaotic Misano E-Prix

In a race that occasionally resembled a sim racing Battle Royale rather than a typical motorsport event, the inaugural Misano E-Prix on Saturday was full of thrills and spills – with a mind-boggling number of lead and position changes.

And, after 28 laps of frantic pack racing, despite enjoying a period in the lead, Envision Racing missed out on any points.

Fortunately, there is a chance for redemption on Sunday.

Both Envision Racing drivers started the first ever Misano E-Prix lined up astern, with Frijns in ninth and Buemi 10th. Emerging from the opening sequence of corners at the start of the race it was Buemi who made the most progress, moving up to eighth as Frijns dropped to 11th.

Up front, pole position-winner Mitch Evans held the lead, and was soon dramatically joined at the front by Buemi, who then stormed into the lead as drama ensued further down the pack.

The opening laps of the Misano E-Prix played out as expected, with no driver wanting to lead, and the field forming close quarter pack formation racing to save energy. By the start of lap five, following seemingly countless lead and general position changes, António Félix da Costa cycled into the lead as Buemi held seventh and Frijns 10th.

Jaguar’s Cassidy temporarily exited the race on lap six, trailing smoke from a damaged front wing as the racing got tighter and tighter at the front. Two laps later, for the first time in the race, the field started to spread out, headed by Sam Bird, who quickly became swamped by the two DS Penske machines.

On lap 10, everything closed up again, with Evans returning to the front, and both Envision Racing drivers surviving the wheel banging to run inside the top 10. The breathless pace continued into the second half of the E-Prix, with Buemi once again leading for Envision Racing, followed by da Costa and a soon-to-be-penalised Jean-Éric Vergne, as Frijns dropped to 16th.

By lap 20, Buemi had established himself in the top 10, not too far behind the jaw-dropping scrap for the lead, which was held by Oliver Rowland. Frijns pitted one lap later after suffering a puncture, effectively ending his hope of any points in Italy and leaving Buemi to uphold Envision Racing’s charge.

As the race entered the final lap, with the field more strung out Buemi found himself struggling to balance his energy needs and, suddenly down in 16th behind Nyck de Vries, the chance of points had seemingly vanished. Up front, Da Costa survived the chaos to win ahead of Rowland and Jake Dennis.

Buemi would ultimately come home 13th for Envision Racing, with Frijns 18th.

Drivers’ standings (after Race 7):

1. Oliver Rowland, 73pts
2. Jake Dennis, 68pts
3. Pascal Wehrlein, 63pts
4. Nick Cassidy, 61pts
5. Maximilian Günther, 60pts
10. Robin Frijns, 21pts
11. Sébastien Buemi, 20pts

Teams’ standings (after Race 7):
1. Jaguar TCS Racing, 111pts
2. Porsche Formula E Team, 108pts
3. Andretti Formula E 87, pts
4. Nissan, 81pts
5. DS Penske, 62pts
8. Envision Racing, 41pts

Familiar country but unfamiliar circuit awaits Envision Racing for crucial double-header weekend

The Misano E-Prix will provide a new challenge as Robin Frijns and Sébastien Buemi look to get the Drivers’ and Team’s title challenges back on track in Italy

Envision Racing are no strangers to Italy. Since Season 4 in 2017, the eternal city of Rome has provided a spectacular and popular Italian home for the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. But for season 10, a new challenge awaits.

Hot on the heels of the inaugural Tokyo E-Prix, Envision Racing will swap the streets of the Asian metropolis for a permanent race track on the Adriatic Coast, in the shape of the iconic Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. Named after the late, beloved MotoGP racer, the undulating circuit is set deep in the beautiful Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, and since 2007 has circuit has been a cornerstone of the MotoGP calendar.

Here, motorcycle racing legend Valentino Rossi, a local hero and seven-time World Champion, has reigned supreme on multiple occasions.

It will be electric-power and four wheels, however that takes centre stage this weekend, and with two races on the cards, it will be a vital weekend to bag some points and climb the championship standings.

The challenge

The Misano E-Prix is another big moment for Italian motorsport as Formula E brings its cutting-edge electric racing to a circuit steeped in tradition.  This unique combination is sure to attract a passionate crowd eager to witness the future of racing.

The 3.38km circuit is a mix of the familiar and the new. Formula E will utilise a modified version of the Misano World Circuit layout, incorporating a twisty infield section for the opening turns before rejoining the main circuit. 

This unique combination promises a rapid and flowing course with plenty of overtaking opportunities. Expect drivers to battle wheel-to-wheel through the tight corners and strategise power management on the high-speed sections.

Last time out

It has been a tough start to the season for Envision Racing, however there has been plenty of speed shown in practice, qualifying, and the race from both Frijns and Buemi. The undoubted highlight after five races being Frijns’ second place finish at the Diriyah E-Prix.

Last time out, the first ever Tokyo E-Prix proved to be a tough weekend in the Japanese capital. Buemi started near the back of the field, and Frijns 10th, but there were some positives to be drawn. As Buemi battled to a creditable, but ultimately pointless 13th-place finish, team-mate Frijns fared slightly better.

The Dutch driver turned in a measured drive to hold on to his starting position and run 10th as the race approached the chequered flag. The Envision racer had to summon all his experience and skill to defend his position against a charging Sette Câmara.

In a thrilling display of racecraft, Frijns held firm to cross the chequered flag in 10th place.  This became even sweeter when Andretti’s Normal Nato received a penalty, bumping Frijns up to a well-deserved ninth-place finish.

Did you know?

The nearby resort of Rimini is the birthplace of the world-renowned  film director Federico Fellini,  famous for his surreal and dreamlike movies like “La Dolce Vita” and “8 ½”.  The city even has a museum dedicated to his life and work.

When to catch the Misano E-Prix

(All times BST)

Round 6

Free Practice 1 Friday 12 April – 16:00 – 16:30

Free Practice 2 Saturday 13 April – 07:00 – 07:30

Qualifying Saturday 13 April – 09:20 – 10:43

E-Prix Saturday 13 April 14:03 – 15:00

Round 7

Free Practice 3 Friday 14 April – 07:00 – 07:30

Qualifying Saturday 14 April – 09:20 – 10:43

E-Prix Saturday 14 April 04:03 – 15:00

Drivers’ standings (after Rd 5):
1. Nick Cassidy, 63pts
2. Pascal Wehrlein, 63pts
3. Oliver Rowland, 54pts
4. Jake Dennis, 53pts
5. Maximilian Günther, 48pts
9. Robin Frijns, 23pts
9. Sébastien Buemi, 20pts

Teams’ standings (after Rd 5):
1. Jaguar TCS Racing, 102pts
2. Porsche Formula E Team, 83pts
3. Nissan, 63pts
4. Andretti Formula E 62, pts
5. DS Penske, 57pts
8. Envision Racing, 43pts

Frijns survives late-race scare to claim top 10 finish in Tokyo

Envision Racing’s Robin Frijns emerged from the first ever Tokyo E-Prix with a hard-won eighth place and important points for himself and the team

After 35 laps of a dramatic, historic E-Prix in Japan, not even the loss of a front wing could hinder Frijns’ quest for points.

The Envision Racing driver executed a calm but rapid race, surviving damage late in the race to end up eighth, with four points in the bag after a tough day on brand new circuit.

In truth it could have been even better for the Dutchman, if he had not been hit by Norman Nato in the closing stages – a collision that earned the Andretti driver a five-second penalty.

Despite setting the pace in practice, Envision Racing suffered another difficult qualifying session which did not reflect the speed of the car and drivers. Robin Frijns narrowly missed out on making the duels ending up 10th on the grid, whilst Sébastien Buemi was forced to settle for 21st after damage prevented him making the most of his final qualifying run.

When the lights went out to start the first ever E-Prix in Japan it was polesitter Oliver Rowland who maintained the lead, and as the pack filtered through the opening sequence of corners, Frijns had moved up two places to eighth.

After a lively opening couple of laps, Frijns managed to settle into eighth, just behind António Félix da Costa, as team-mate Buemi remained boxed in down in 21st place.

In the closing metres of lap four, Frijns made a superb double overtake, surging from eighth to sixth, slotting in behind the Porsche of Pascal Wehrlein.

By lap 10 of the scheduled 33, Frijns found himself in a decent seventh place, behind da Costa, as up front, Rowland maintained his lead from Edoardo Mortara and Maximilian Günther. Three laps later, a temporary drop to eighth was soon resolved as Frijns passed Sérgio Sette Câmara to once again set his sights on sixth place man da Costa.

As the battle for the lead between Rowland and Günther, Frijns elected to take his opening Attack Mode phase on lap 18, dropping down to eighth place. Further back, Buemi had made decent progress, moving from 21st to 16th, aided by a crash for Jaguar’s Mitch Evans.

On lap 20 the debris resulting from Evans’ incident necessitated the first safety car period of the day, bunching up the pack, with Frijns sitting seventh, and Buemi running 16th. 

Racing action resumed on lap 22, with Rowland at the front, chased by Günther and Mortara with Frijns in seventh chasing the two Andretti machines. Two laps later Frijns went for Attack Mode, losing a place to Wehrlein’s slightly wounded Porsche. 

Two additional laps were added to the race distance, extending the contest to 35 laps as Günther headed the pack in the Maserati from Rowland and da Costa. Frijns continued to hold eighth place for Envision Racing, applying the pressure on Norman Nato before a heavy collision for the Dutch driver resulted in the loss of his front wing.

Frijns emerged from the contact with Nato down in 10th, minus a serious chunk of downforce.

Entering the final, added two laps, Frijns was forced to apply all his skill and experience to resist a challenge from Sette Câmara. At the chequered flag, Frijns managed to hold on to finish 10th on the road, which became ninth as Nato was penalised for causing the earlier collision.

Up front, Günther claimed the win ahead of Rowland and Jake Dennis, with Buemi ending up 12th. 

After the race there was further good news for Frijns. Mahindra Racing’s Mortara was found to have used excess energy, resulting in his disqualification, promoting Frijns to eighth (and Buemi to 12th), and adding an extra two points to the Teams’ and Drivers’ Championship tally.

Drivers’ standings (after Rd 5):
1. Nick Cassidy, 63pts
2. Pascal Wehrlein, 63pts
3. Oliver Rowland, 54pts
4. Jake Dennis, 53pts
5. Maximilian Günther, 48pts
9. Robin Frijns, 23pts
9. Sébastien Buemi, 20pts

Teams’ standings (after Rd 5):
1. Jaguar TCS Racing, 102pts
2. Porsche Formula E Team, 83pts
3. Nissan, 63pts
4. Andretti Formula E 62, pts
5. DS Penske, 57pts
8. Envision Racing, 43pts

Envision Racing head to Japan for the first time hungry for victory

It has been years in the making, but the Tokyo E-Prix is finally here, and Envision Racing are ready to battle for big points in one of the coolest cities in the world!

The inaugural Tokyo E-Prix will mark the first time the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship has ever visited Japan, and after four races, the first time the series and Envision Racing has done battle at a new venue. With the now familiar venues of Mexico City, Diriyah, and São Paulo chalked off, a brand new challenge awaits for round five of the championship.

After four races, reigning Teams’ Champions Envision Racing have experienced a mixed start to the 2023–24 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. The undoubted highlight so far in 2024 has been Robin Frijns’ second place finish at the second race of the Diriyah E-Prix weekend. 

Both Robin Frijns and team-mate Sébastien Buemi have shown front-running pace in practice, qualifying, and race conditions so far, however the luck just hasn’t quite been with the team in the same way it seemed to be in 2023. Ahead of the first ever Tokyo E-Prix, Buemi sits ninth in the Drivers’ Championship standings – with Frijns in 10th.

Envision Racing occupies seventh place in the Teams’ Championship order, however a good points haul in Japan will see the team get back to near the summit, and set a course for a strong defence of their crown.  

THE CHALLENGE IN TOKYO

Gear up for a pulse-pounding ride around the Tokyo Street Circuit! This isn’t your average racetrack. This 2.5km track is a brand new, 18-turn challenge that snakes its way around the Tokyo International Exhibition Centre, also known as Tokyo Big Sight – the largest venue in all of Japan. And it all takes place just minutes from the heart of the bustling metropolis.

The layout itself is a masterclass in variety. Three long straights allow for exhilarating bursts of speed, perfect for showcasing the raw power of the Gen3 Formula E cars. But don’t be fooled – this isn’t all about flat-out acceleration. Interspersed with these straights are technical sequences of tight corners, demanding razor-sharp precision and quick reflexes from the drivers. As if that wasn’t enough, the circuit throws in some high-speed combinations, forcing drivers to thread the needle between blistering pace and maintaining control.

Imagine navigating this complex dance of speed and agility, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Tokyo skyline. For the first time, the iconic cityscape becomes a stage for the future of motorsport.

Both Frijns and Buemi, having only experienced this virtual labyrinth through simulators, are chomping at the bit to finally get behind the wheel and test their mettle on this real-world challenge. The Tokyo Street Circuit promises to be a true test of skill and a spectacle for fans – a perfect marriage of innovation, electric adrenaline, and the undeniable allure of Tokyo.

LAST TIME OUT IN BRAZIL

In 2023 Envision Racing tasted podium success at the inaugural São Paulo E-Prix. The team’s second visit to the tricky South American venue didn’t yield similar success, however, Sébastien Buemi did turn in a determined drive to secure an unlikely brace of points. One for finishing 10th (fittingly the 10th of his career), and another for claiming the fastest lap of the race.

Shaking off a frustrating 19th place finish in Saudi Arabia, Robin Frijns will have his sights set on redemption in Japan. The Dutch driver is hungry for a strong result as he and Envision Racing head to the historic Tokyo E-Prix.

Drivers’ standings (after Rd 4):
1. Nick Cassidy, 57pts
2. Pascal Wehrlein, 53pts
3. Mitch Evans, 39pts
4. Jean-Éric Vergne 39pts
5. Jake Dennis, 38pts
9. Sébastien Buemi, 20pts
10. Robin Frijns, 19pts

Teams’ standings (after Rd 4):
1. Jaguar TCS Racing, 96pts
2. Porsche Formula E Team, 61pts
3. DS Penske, 57pts
4. McLaren, 55pts
5. Andretti Formula E 47, pts
7. Envision Racing, 39pts

DID YOU KNOW?

Tokyo is the most populous metropolis in the world! As of 2023, the Tokyo metropolitan area, which includes Tokyo and its nearby prefectures, is home to a staggering 37.4 million residents. That’s more people than the entire population of Canada!

WHERE AND HOW TO WATCH THE TOKYO E-PRIX

(All times BST)

Free Practice 1 Friday 29 March – 07:25 – 08:15

 

Free Practice 2 Saturday 29 March – 22:55 – 23:45

 

Qualifying Saturday 30 March – 01:20 – 02:43

 

E-Prix Saturday 30 March 06:03 – 07:30

Buemi rewarded with valuable points after a tough day in Brazil

After a difficult qualifying session earlier in the day, Envision Racing’s Sébastien Buemi battled his way to 10th and claimed the fastest lap at the São Paulo E-Prix.

This year’s São Paulo E-Prix was always going to be a hard-fought one for the Envision Racing team, as competitors gain ground after the opening rounds of the season. After a tough qualifying session, Sébastien Buemi ended up 18th on the grid, with team-mate Robin Frijns one place ahead in 17th. After 34 laps of a race shaped by energy saving and strategy, Buemi ended his afternoon with a hard-earned top 10 result, and bagged an extra point for the fastest lap of the race.  

The former world champion drove a measured race to move up from his lowly starting position to claim what could be a vital two points in the hunt for both the Teams’ and Drivers’ titles this year.

At the start of the second ever São Paulo E-Prix it was pole-sitter Pascal Wehrlein in the Porsche who headed the pack into the first corner. Further back down the field, both Envision Racing drivers emerged unscathed from the opening sequence of turns with Frijns moving up to 15th and Buemi gaining a place.

By the fifth lap of the race, Frijns and Buemi were running line astern in 15th and 16th respectively, as up front it was Sam Bird’s turn to lead from António Félix da Costa and Mitch Evans. Two laps later a safety car was deployed to clean up some debris strewn across the first corner with da Costa leading from Wehrlein and Jean-Éric Vergne.

With the safety car back in the pitlane, Frijns held onto his 15th place with Buemi dropping to 18th. At the halfway point it was all change as Nick Cassidy dramatically crashed out, triggering a second safety car phase. After the dust settled, Buemi found he had pushed himself up into 10th place, and in the points, with Frijns back in 18th.

With the race back underway on lap 20, Bird headed the field once more. In 10th, Buemi found himself behind Maximilian Günther and ahead of Sacha Fenestraz, with the Envision Racing driver yet to use all his Attack Mode.

Buemi elected to take his final Attack Mode phase on lap 24, pushing the Swiss driver back to 12th. This proved a temporary setback as Buemi quickly regained his place in the top 10 and went about setting the fastest lap of the race on lap 26.

The safety car interventions meant that a total of three laps would be added to the initial 31, making the São Paulo E-Prix a 34-lap race. At the beginning of the 34th and final lap, Buemi remained in 10th with Fenestraz’s Nissan in hot pursuit. Could the Envision Racing man hang on to claim a valuable 10th place finish?

The answer was yes. On a sweltering day in São Paulo, Buemi claimed 10th and an unlikely point, which became two as he set the fastest lap of the day.

Up front Sam Bird claimed victory with a stunning last gasp overtake to relegate Evans to second place, with Oliver Rowland rounding out the podium.

Following his podium last time out in Saudi Arabia, it was a disappointing 19th place finish for Frijns, who suffered some technical issues that prevented him cutting through the field over the final few laps.

The Dutch driver will be looking to bounce back as the competition heads to Japan for the first ever Tokyo E-Prix in two weeks’ time.

Drivers’ standings (after Rd 4):
1. Nick Cassidy, 57pts
2. Pascal Wehrlein, 53pts
3. Mitch Evans, 39pts
4. Jean-Éric Vergne 39pts
5. Jake Dennis, 38pts

——–
9. Sébastien Buemi, 20pts
10. Robin Frijns, 19pts

Teams’ standings (after Rd 4):
1. Jaguar TCS Racing, 96pts
2. Porsche Formula E Team, 61pts
3. DS Penske, 57pts
4. McLaren, 55pts
5. Andretti Formula E, 47 pts

——–
7. Envision Racing, 39pts

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