DS Automobiles delivered an impressive performance during the second round of the Monaco E-Prix, with Jean-Éric Vergne leading for more than half the race. His efforts, along with Maximilian Günther’s determined drive, allowed the team to secure crucial points, marking another successful weekend for DS PENSKE.
Strategic Qualifying and Strong Race Performance
Heading into the Monaco race, DS PENSKE’s primary objective was to secure favorable starting positions through a solid qualifying performance. Vergne and Günther achieved exactly that, securing spots on the second row of the grid. Their performance in wet conditions, aided by a modified car setup, showcased their ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances.
The DS E-TENSE FE25 cars were in top form as the race began. Vergne quickly moved into second place before the first ‘Attack Mode’, and by skillfully managing the next phase of the race, he surged into the lead, thrilling the Monaco crowd. Günther, racing in third, was engaged in an intense battle with his competitors, constantly fighting to maintain his position.
Safety Car Shakes Up the Race, but DS PENSKE Keeps Fighting
Vergne managed to build a lead of over three seconds before the safety car was deployed, disrupting the race's flow. With the restart, both DS drivers strategized to make the most of the second ‘Attack Mode’. Despite their best efforts, the drying track posed significant challenges. Vergne continued to battle and held onto a top-three spot until the conditions worsened. As the track dried, his car struggled to maintain pace, causing him to fall back to 6th place by the race’s conclusion.
Maximilian Günther also faced difficulties as the track dried. Despite these challenges, he held firm and finished in 8th place, securing important points for the team.
A Strong Showing in Monaco, Despite the Challenges
Though conditions were tough, DS Automobiles made the most of the situation and collected valuable points. The team’s performance in Monaco is seen as a positive step forward, and they now look to the upcoming race in Tokyo, where they will continue to aim for more points and further success in the season.
Eugenio Franzetti, Director of DS Performance, reflected on the race:
“Today’s race went much better for us compared to yesterday. Both the free practice sessions and qualifying went well, which allowed us to start from 3rd and 4th on the grid. The first part of the race was strong, and we managed to avoid any major incidents. Jean-Éric took the lead, and we were able to hold it for a long time until the safety car neutralized our 3-second advantage. Once the track began to dry, we faced some difficulties, but ultimately, both cars finished in the points, which is a great result for both championships.”
Jean-Éric Vergne’s Post-Race Comments
Jean-Éric Vergne, Formula E champion in 2018 and 2019, shared his thoughts on the race:
“It was a solid start for us. I had a strong launch, and with the wet conditions, we were very competitive. Unfortunately, we were unlucky with the safety car, especially since the Full Course Yellow was used throughout the weekend. As the track dried, we struggled, as our car setup was more suited for wet conditions. Given the situation, I’m happy with the result, and we did our best.”
Maximilian Günther Reflects on the Difficult Conditions
Maximilian Günther described the challenges he faced throughout the race:
“The conditions were very tricky, but we handled the qualifying well, starting in 3rd and 4th positions. Jean-Éric had a better start than me, which cost me some places. At the start of the race, I had no grip, and I was battling significant oversteer. That made it difficult to move up the grid. I remained in 4th or 5th for most of the race, but when the track dried, things became more challenging. In the end, the focus was on minimizing losses, and I’m happy we brought both cars home in the points. We’ve learned a lot from this race, and it’s important that we turned things around after Saturday’s tough day.”
Key Stats for DS Automobiles in Formula E:
- 128 Races
- 4 Championship Titles
- 17 Wins
- 52 Podiums
- 25 Pole Positions
Looking Forward to Tokyo
With the Monaco race behind them, DS Automobiles is now looking forward to the upcoming race in Tokyo, Japan, in two weeks. The team aims to continue their strong performances and accumulate more points as the season progresses. DS Automobiles remains focused on maintaining their competitive edge and making strides toward further success in the Formula E championship.
