After mixed success at this year’s opening rounds in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler heads to Rome this weekend in a search for more podiums in the 2020/21 FIA Formula E series. Two races will be held in the Italian capital this weekend (April 10 and 11) with Lucas di Grassi and René Rast looking to capitalise on the obvious speed the Audi e-tron FE07 cars showed in Saudi Arabia.

“The results so far do not reflect our true strength,” says Team Principal Allan McNish. In the opening races, Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler scored a total of 19 points and René Rast narrowly missed the podium with fourth place on Friday. “Nevertheless, all of the Audi e-tron FE07 cars were very quick at Diriyah. With this experience, some more testing and intensive preparation, all of this together has given our team and drivers additional confidence and a spring in the step. Now we want to reward our hard work with trophies. Just like last time, two years ago, the appearance in Rome will be one of the season highlights,” he says.

Since the last Formula E races were held in Rome in 2019, the circuit has been significantly redesigned, and while it still runs through the heart of the World’s Fair district and along the spectacular ‘La Nuvola’ convention centre, it now includes three additional fast turns, a technically challenging section as well as a longer, faster main straight. 

The new course is also longer and at 3.385km, is in fact the longest circuit in Formula E.

“The new layout is fantastic. It has longer and faster straights and offers more overtaking opportunities. I'm sure the fans will love it, I can’t wait to finally race there,” says Lucas di Grassi.
For René Rast, the fact that two races will be held in Rome is good news. “This gives me the opportunity to look at the data after the first day and learn something for the second race,” says the German. “Even though we will unfortunately have hardly any spectators, I am really looking forward to the weekend: I’ve been to Rome many times and find the city impressive. To now be racing on these streets is something very special for me.” 

Expectations are high for the team going into the weekend, looking to build on the points earned in the first two rounds and see a strong showing for the team in what will be the final factory-backed season in Formula E before Audi takes on Dakar in 2022.

Visit the official FIA Formula E site for options on how to view all the action this weekend, and don’t forget to select fan boost for Lucas di Grassi and René Rast to show your support.