In a dramatic U-turn, Formula E has scrapped its controversial plan to introduce the ‘Golden Lap’ initiative for the upcoming season after facing fierce backlash from teams and drivers. The idea, which proposed awarding points to drivers for leading specific laps during races, was axed after widespread criticism about its potential to overcomplicate race strategies.
The ‘Golden Lap’ concept would have allowed two predetermined lap numbers to award points, significantly boosting the total points haul from each race to 31, including pole position and fastest lap rewards. However, Formula E’s competitors, who had not been consulted before the initial announcement, were quick to voice their concerns.
Teams and drivers expressed skepticism over the need for such an initiative, particularly given the already chaotic nature of the racing. Drivers like McLaren-turned-Maserati’s Jake Hughes questioned the necessity of the plan, suggesting that it would disrupt the existing balance between strategy and energy conservation.
“My gut feeling is it’s unnecessary,” Hughes stated, pointing out that existing strategic tools like Attack Mode and the upcoming Attack Charge already provide enough layers of complexity to races.
Hughes’ new team principal, Cyril Blais, echoed his driver’s sentiments, adding that the risk of a ‘Golden Lap’ coinciding with a safety car period could create loopholes that would negatively affect the spectacle.
“Teams are very clever at exploiting regulations,” Blais warned. “It could end up looking bad on TV if not properly thought through.”
The pushback led to the swift abandonment of the ‘Golden Lap’ idea, with Formula E’s COO, Alberto Longo, stepping in to calm the storm. Longo emphasized that while the series would continue to innovate, the focus for now would be on more grounded initiatives—namely, the reintroduction of pit stops.
Pit Stops Make Their Return
With the ‘Golden Lap’ scrapped, Formula E is turning its attention to its Attack Charge pit stops, set to debut in the upcoming season. The new system, which has undergone rigorous testing, is expected to bring back pit stops for the first time since 2018. If testing goes well, the Mexico City E-Prix in January is earmarked as the venue for the competitive debut of this system.
The Attack Charge, which allows for a rapid energy top-up during races, is seen as a strategic element that could spice up competition without the complications of the ‘Golden Lap’ initiative. The technology has been in development since 2023 and is finally nearing race-ready status after a series of delays and testing phases.
Longo is confident that the new system will attract a broader audience to the sport, stressing the importance of fighting predictability in Formula E. “We need to challenge the teams and manufacturers to ensure that Formula E remains exciting and unpredictable,” he said.
Eyes on Mexico City
The Attack Charge pit stop system’s first test under race conditions is expected to take place at the Circuit Hermanos Rodriguez in Mexico City. The circuit, with its more traditional pit lane setup, provides an ideal environment for the system’s launch, compared to the unique and challenging layout of the Sao Paulo track.
Longo has set his sights on a full implementation of the system by Season 12 in 2025, with a phased rollout beginning this season. The goal, he explained, is to revolutionize the viewing experience and showcase cutting-edge technology while keeping races competitive and unpredictable.
“We’re not just another motorsport series. We’re here to push boundaries,” Longo asserted, positioning Formula E as a leader in technological innovation within the motorsport world.
With the controversial ‘Golden Lap’ now in the rearview mirror, all eyes will be on the new pit stop dynamics to see if they can deliver the excitement and unpredictability fans crave.
