Formula E is arriving in Europe. The electric racing series will make its debut in the streets of Rome. The German Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler team with Daniel Abt and Lucas di Grassi wants to focus on further success in Italy’s capital city. Most recently, they scored victory in Mexico and a second place in Uruguay.
Asia, Africa, South and Middle America and now Europe: On its world tour, Formula E will stop in Rome for the first time. A race of 33 laps is to be covered by the drivers on the 2.860-kilometer city circuit that leads right through the “Esposizione Universale di Roma (EUR)” world fair district and along the spectacular “La Nuvola” convention center. It is the seventh race of a total of twelve this season. Following victory in Mexico and second place in Uruguay, Daniel Abt and Lucas di Grassi are travelling to the Eternal City highly motivated.
“Italy is like a second home for me. My grandparents were born there, I have an Italian passport and plenty of Italian blood running in my veins,” says the reigning champion, di Grassi. “The track looks incredibly challenging: fast sections, slow sections, several overtaking opportunities – the fans are going to experience a real Formula E highlight.” The aim following the podium in Punta del Este is clear: “A look at the championship standings shows that we’ve got a lot to win and little to lose. I’m going to give my all to clinch my first victory this season and to make the many fans and guests of Audi proud.”
His teammate, Daniel Abt, is currently the best German in the overall standings. “A new city and a completely new circuit are always a real challenge for the drivers and engineers. It’s great that Formula E is now travelling to Europe with its very large fan community and huge interest,” says Abt. “As a racer, the last event in Uruguay with zero points is water under the bridge for me. Now I’m set on returning with my team to where we were in Mexico: on podium.”
For Team Principal Allan McNish, the season is only now really picking up momentum. “In the last two races, we found our old strength again and Daniel and Lucas were fighting at the front in qualifying and the race and that is exactly how we want to continue in Rome. But to be on the podium the whole team needs to have a fast and clean weekend because the intense Formula E race format punishes mistakes,” says the Scotsman. In addition, there is huge interest in the Italian premiere. McNish: “There will be a great amount of attention from fans, media and of course from Audi employees at this new and fascinating race in Rome. I am sure it will be a close, hard-fought race.”
