The Saturday São Paulo E-Prix will feature a tabloid-style race format that Formula E drivers believe will be filled with potential accidents. Qualifying will have little importance in terms of gaining an advantage from the pole position, as drivers at the front of the grid will try to avoid being the first car into the first corner and the first few laps of the race. This type of race, known as ‘pack racing’, was most extreme at the Portland race last June, where the grid raced side by side on the park circuit. However, the São Paulo circuit does not offer the same luxury, as it is surrounded by walls and barriers, raising concerns about accidents. Additionally, the reduced usable energy for this year’s event will require extreme energy saving, especially in the first half of the race. With limited run-off areas, drivers are cautious of a race that could result in multiple suspensions.
Several Formula E drivers have expressed their concerns about the dangerous nature of the race format. Jean-Eric Vergne described it as a “confusing race” and expressed his dislike for it. He believes it becomes more normal when teams feel comfortable leading the race. However, before that point, it can be a joke, as seen in the Portland race. Sebastien Buemi also shared his perspective, stating that starting at the front does not bring much advantage in this race. He mentioned uncomfortable situations where some drivers want to lose position, others want to stay in the slipstream, and some are desperate to move up the standings. These situations can lead to misunderstandings and potentially cause major accidents. Buemi cited an example from the Portland race, where he had a lot of energy and was much faster on the straight, but if a driver unexpectedly moves out of the way, it creates unnecessary situations.
Robin Frijns compared the race to a bicycle race, where if one person falls, it can cause a chain reaction and everyone falls. He believes that the long straights and slow corners in São Paulo will cause the drivers to group together, increasing the risk of accidents. Florian Modlinger, director of Porsche factory motorsport Formula E, emphasized the importance of having reliable drivers around you in these types of races. He drew a parallel with cycling and how behavior in the peloton can dictate the pace of the race. He also mentioned that having friends on the grid is crucial, as you cannot succeed alone.
The Formula E paddock is prepared for a change in racing style after the high-speed races in Mexico City and Riyadh. Although there may be a risk of conflicting opinions from the drivers, there is a sense that a middle ground is not explored in Gen3 races. The closest to a balanced race was Monaco last year, where the circuit characteristics, grip levels, and usable energy contributed to a well-balanced race. São Paulo 2023 may not be as extreme as the Portland E-Prix, but with the reduction of usable energy this season and the knowledge gained by teams and drivers, an exciting race is expected if it remains clean.
The director of Jaguar TCS Racing team, James Barclay, believes that the race format will be extremely tight and will require cool heads and strategic decision-making. He emphasizes the importance of qualifying and track position in determining the race result. In the end, the balance between racing styles remains uncertain, but Barclay believes it will bring many competitors to the fray and highlight the importance of strategy.
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The Formula 1 driver, Lewis Hamilton, achieved another impressive victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix. With a flawless performance, Hamilton dominated the race from start to finish, leaving his competitors behind. With this win, the British driver further solidifies himself as one of the greatest in Formula 1 history.
The race started with Hamilton in pole position and maintaining the lead from the start. He showed an incredible pace, setting fast laps and opening a comfortable gap over the other competitors. Despite some attempts to overtake by his rivals, Hamilton remained strong and didn’t give anyone a chance.
In addition to the victory, Hamilton also secured the extra point for the fastest lap of the race. This further extends his lead in the world championship standings. With only a few races left in the season, it seems increasingly difficult for his competitors to catch up.
After the race, Hamilton expressed his happiness with the win and thanked the team for their excellent work. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and determination until the end of the season. With his talent and dedication, it’s no surprise that Hamilton is currently dominating Formula 1.
The next race will be the Mexican Grand Prix, and all eyes will be on Hamilton once again. It will be interesting to see if he can maintain his winning streak and continue to impress the world of motorsport. One thing is certain: Lewis Hamilton is a true champion and his journey towards success is far from over.
