Formula E: Turbulent race in Mexico

Championship leader Sébastien Buemi fought hard and showed nerves for the first time. A mistake in qualifying cost him a place on the front row of the grid. The 27-year-old started the race in fifth place, while his teammate Prost managed to position himself right behind D'Ambrosio in second. "The track layout made it difficult to overtake," Buemi admitted. This was particularly evident after the pit stop. Buemi rejoined the track in third, behind Jerome D'Ambrosio and Lucas di Grassi. After di Grassi took the lead, Buemi was forced to react.

Hard duel
But the Aigler native was unable to overtake D'Ambrosio. He was stuck behind the Belgian for laps, who successfully fended off every attempt to attack. Then, on lap 29, the éclat: Buemi lost his nerve and drove into the rear of D'Ambrosio. Both were able to continue the race. On lap 35, Buemi tried again but was too late on the brakes and had to take a shortcut at the chicane. To avoid gaining an unfair advantage, Buemi dropped back behind D'Ambrosio again. In the end, Buemi had to admit defeat: He crossed the finish line in third place.

Buemi and Prost benefit retrospectively
Nicolas Prost didn't have an easy race either. After obstructing Daniel Abt as he left the pits, he directly collected a drive-through penalty. Prost finished the race provisionally in fifth position. Much to the surprise of Lucas di Grassi, victory was retroactively disallowed because his Audi did not meet the minimum weight requirements. The result was therefore: D'Ambrosio ahead of Buemi and Prost. "The final result is in our favor. All in all, I'm happy to have retained the lead in the championship," said Buemi. In the overall standings, Buemi now leads by 22 points ahead of Lucas di Grassi and Sam Bird (60 points). Nicolas Prost currently occupies sixth place with 38 points.

The next Formula E race will take place on April 02 in Long Beach.

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Photo: Renault e.dams