Virgin Racing driver Sam Bird has won the second FIA Formula E race in Putrajaya, Malaysia earning his second podium finish in as many races in the all-electric series.
Bird, whose strong qualifying session secured his second-place grid spot, attacked the race from the start overtaking Oriol Servià in lap four. Bird continued to widen the gap by taking a three second lead within two laps and was the last driver to swap to his second car, a display of efficient driving and a tactic that enhanced his dominance of the race. The 28-year-old then led for the majority of the race, falling into second just once following his car changeover, but Bird quickly regained the lead and cruised to a 4.175s victory.
Speaking of his win, Sam Bird said: ” It has been an amazing weekend for myself and the Virgin Racing team.
We knew we were quick from the very first outing today and after some quick laps in my first car, I made it easy for myself in the second car meaning I could just coast to the finish and look after my lead. I made some nice moves when I had to when overtaking Abt and Servia, but other than that it was all about being quick and sensible.
For Virgin Racing to have two podiums in two races, a win already in this Championship and for me to sit here alongside Abt and e-dams, credit has to go to the Virgin Racing team – a newly formed team for Formula E. It’s going to take something special to keep beating these guys but I’m looking forward to the rest of the Championship.
Finally, I want to dedicate this win to a good friend of mine who is currently very ill. We all know him and wish for him to make a full recovery. This win is for Jules Bianchi.”
Team Principal Alex Tai said “Sam drove a fantastic race and we are all thrilled to be top of the podium. It was a challenging circuit and credit to Sam, who dominated from the start with skilful and clever driving.
We’ve got a great team of drivers and engineers and I’m really proud of the result. The mechanics were working on Jaime’s second car whilst he started the race, showing just how hard this team is prepared to work. Now we have to keep focus as we look to Punta del Esta.”
Virgin Racing driver Jaime Alguersuari finished ninth fastest and drove the quickest lap in the Putrajaya street race to secure an additional two points for the team. Virgin Racing now has 44 points and is sitting in second position in the Team Championship.