Success in Hong Kong

If you had only watched the start of the race, you’d be forgiven for thinking that things weren’t looking good for the ABT Schaeffler Audi Sport cars in Hong Kong. Chinese driver Ma Qing Hua in the Techeetah entry was quickest around the Hong Kong street circuit in qualifying, with Lucas di Grassi ultimately settling for 19th position right at the back of the grid after difficulties in qualifying.

That initial set back was only exacerbated at the start of the race when di Grassi was caught up in an accident on the second corner, and, unable to avoid the carnage, suffered damage to his front wing as a result.

With repairs made, Lucas again found himself at the back of the 20 car field, but using another safety car phase to make the mandatory car change, he fought his way back through the field in an outstanding drive. Overtaking points around the Hong Kong track are limited, so di Grassi’s performance was nothing short of inspired, showing not only his race craft but patience. Add to that the need to adhere to a strict energy saving driving style and the performance was truly masterful.

Unfortunately an accident also impacted Daniel Abt in the other ABT Schaeffler Audi Sport car, forcing him to retire in the early stages of the race due to damage. His was one of five retirements from the field.

di Grassi was understandably thrilled at the result and the season opener in general saying:

“Hong Kong is a breathtaking city for Formula E – I can’t imagine a better start to the new season. We received a huge amount of attention from the media and the fans in this megacity. Everybody in the city knew about the event and applauded us. The Emotion Club in the paddock was sold out, as well as the grandstands, and there was a party atmosphere at the podium – it wasn’t just a fantastic opener for me, but also for Formula E.” 

“I saved energy wherever I could and with a very conservative driving style that exploited every Joule. I never thought that it would be possible, but we quite literally squeezed everything out of the car – and the result was second place at the flag. Great! This shows once again that as a team we just don’t give up. Races like these – or also that in Le Mans this year – show that it’s never over until the checkered flag waves. A big thank you today also to my team and my mechanics who made this possible.”