Building a successful international motorsport team from scratch is no small feat. It requires a vision, relentless determination, a bit of luck, and most importantly, a team capable of delivering consistent results. Jaguar’s path to success in Formula E embodies all these elements, culminating in a momentous achievement that solidified its place at the pinnacle of electric racing.
It took Jaguar several years to rise to the challenge, but by December 2024, the team will proudly receive its FIA Formula E World Championship teams’ trophy. The achievement is made even more significant as Porsche, another prestigious manufacturer, will see Pascal Wehrlein collect his drivers’ crown at the same event in Kigali, Rwanda. This dual victory for two iconic brands underscores the intense competition and dedication that defines Formula E.
Jaguar’s journey in Formula E began in 2016, a time when Porsche was deep into its record-breaking 919 Hybrid sportscar program. While Porsche was already familiar with electric technology, Jaguar was entering relatively uncharted territory. After a disappointing Formula 1 stint from 2000 to 2004, the brand had been absent from the motorsport scene. The decision to re-enter competition through Formula E came at the right time, marking a significant shift in Jaguar’s approach to motorsport.
The early years in Formula E were challenging for Jaguar. The team lacked the established infrastructure and experience that other manufacturers like Porsche and Mercedes could draw upon. However, Jaguar made a strategic move by partnering with Williams Advanced Engineering, leveraging their expertise to build a competitive foundation. This partnership, coupled with the appointment of key personnel like Craig Wilson, played a crucial role in shaping Jaguar’s Formula E strategy.
Success didn’t come overnight. Jaguar’s first season in 2016-17 saw modest results, with the team finishing last in the standings. However, key milestones soon followed, including the team’s first podium and pole position in 2018. By the 2019-20 season, Jaguar was emerging as a serious contender, although the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted their momentum.
In 2024, Jaguar’s persistence paid off. The team not only started strong with Nick Cassidy’s win in Diriyah but also maintained its form throughout the season, including a pivotal victory by Mitch Evans in Monaco. Jaguar’s strategic approach to development, focusing on creating a car that could perform across various track types, proved successful. The team’s efforts culminated in winning the manufacturers’ trophy, although the drivers’ championship narrowly eluded them due to a late-race incident in Portland.
The integration of Nick Cassidy into the team was seamless, a testament to the cohesive environment that Jaguar has cultivated. Cassidy’s immediate impact, alongside Evans, highlighted the team’s ability to adapt and excel under pressure. Jaguar’s success is a reflection of its commitment to developing a deep pool of talent and ensuring that the team remains strong, even amid changes in personnel.
James Barclay, Jaguar’s team principal, emphasized the importance of teamwork and strategic planning in achieving success. The reorganization within the team allowed for a distribution of responsibilities, ensuring that the team could maintain its competitive edge even as it evolved.
As Jaguar looks ahead, the team remains focused on sustaining its momentum. Barclay’s leadership, combined with the dedication of the entire Jaguar TCS Racing team, has positioned the brand as a dominant force in Formula E. The journey from struggling newcomer to world champion is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and collaboration in the world of motorsport.
With the 2024 season marking a significant chapter in Jaguar’s motorsport history, the team is well-equipped to continue its winning ways, proving that with the right strategy and execution, even the most ambitious dreams can be realized.
Photo from Jaguar Racing Instagram
