Panasonic Jaguar Racing is in confident mood as it looks to build on its first ever win in Formula E, by carrying the momentum in Paris.
Team Director James Barclay says the team wanted to reset itself ahead of the European leg of races, and winning in Rome was the perfect start. However, it is now about maintaining this positive progress.
“To start off with a historic win in Rome is a fantastic feeling and testament to the hard work of the team and the pace of the Jaguar I-TYPE 3,” he adds.
“It also means we head to Paris with confidence, and we will be aiming to maintain the positive momentum. Our focus remains firmly on scoring points at every race for the rest of the season. Mitch is the only driver to have scored at each E-Prix and that will continue to be our focus.”
After securing the team’s first ever victory in Formula E and Jaguar’s first international motorsport win since 1991, Mitch is in buoyant mood heading into the Paris E-Prix, as he looks to score points for the eighth consecutive race.
With such consistent scoring performances, his victory in Rome has put him right in the mix for the Driver’s Championship as he chases down current leader – Mahindra Racing’s Jérôme D’Ambrosio.
“Heading into Paris with that momentum and confidence behind you feels amazing,” he says. “Quickly the focus switches to the next race and ensuring we continue that performance. Rome proved that qualifying high up the grid is critical so that will be our aim in Paris.
“The win in Rome propelled me to fourth in the driver standings – just four points off the leader – so every point is crucial when the championship is so tight.”
Team-mate Alex Lynn is also in positive mood ahead of the French E-Prix after an impressive debut for Panasonic Jaguar Racing in Italy. Despite being penalised after a strong qualifying session, the British driver produced a spirited drive, climbing nine places to finish just outside the points in 12th.
“It feels amazing to be back in Formula E, with this race car and with Jaguar coming off the back of Mitch’s win in Rome,” he adds. “All you want as a driver is a car capable of winning races and we have that now. It gives me huge confidence in the pace of the I-TYPE 3 and I’ll be looking to convert my first points for Panasonic Jaguar Racing in Paris.”
Time to give Mitch and Alex a much needed boost
FanBoost for the race in France is now open, so take a moment to show your support for either Mitch Evans or Alex Lynn.
Each vote counts, as the top five drivers will benefit from an extra boost in the final 25 minutes of the race, which could prove vital in helping Mitch secure the drivers’ title.
Fan voting closes 10 minutes after the race starts, so place your FanBoost here.
Watch all the action live on Saturday from 14:30pm BST on BBC iPlayer, BT Sport 3, Quest or via the ABB Formula E official YouTube channel.
I-PACE eTROPHY R6 - Sérgio Jimenez looks to take control
As the Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY Championship heads into the second half of its inaugural season, it is Jaguar Brazil Racing’s Sérgio Jimenez who is leading the Pro driver’s category.
The Brazilian is intent on extending his lead in Paris, but knows anything can happen with the I-PACE eTROPHY registering five different winners in five races so far this season. And with just six points covering the top three drivers all is to play for – with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing’s Bryan Sellers and Team Asia New Zealand’s Simon Evans in hot pursuit.
Speaking ahead of the race, Sérgio said after securing three podiums at the start of the season, the win in Rome was long overdue, adding:
“It’s an incredible feeling to be on the top step of the podium, and to hear the Brazilian national anthem. Now the goal is to repeat it in Paris to maintain the lead in the championship.
“Jaguar Brazil Racing is aiming to continue its momentum by fighting for a third win in a row for the team in Paris.”
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