Friday in Paris: drivers in the starting-blocks!
On the eve of the Paris ePrix, anticipation is growing more than ever. MotorsInside is at the heart of the event and has gathered the first reactions of the 18 drivers involved.
An undisguised impatience.
Circumnavigating the majestic Hôtel des Invalides with the Eiffel Tower as a backdrop… the setting for this Paris ePrix seems to amaze all the drivers. French and foreign alike, all have admitted in front of the microphones a genuine desire to get behind the wheel for the first Free Practice session!
As such, the reigning world champion Nelson Piquet is still having a hard time realizing that Formula E drivers will compete right in the center of Paris, at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. His Brazilian counterpart, Lucas di Grassi, did not hesitate to state that Paris is in the Top 3 dream locations for a car race!
Obviously, the situation is similar among French speakers. Asked on Friday noon, Jérôme d’Ambrosio stated that he had in front of him one of the most beautiful Formula E circuits. In terms of environment, it’s the race of the season. For Jean-Eric Vergne, France even has the DNA of automotive racing. Holding a race here in Paris is something incredible. We come here for the most interesting moment of the season.
In this regard, the Paris ePrix will certainly be one of the most watched: it also concerns the reputation of the French brand DS, which was born in Paris as Xavier Mestelan Pinon, director of performance at DS Performance, reminds us: « For the DS brand, this Paris ePrix is a major event, we must show the world the extent of our technological advancements. »
Too much pressure on the shoulders of French pilots?
As a local of the stage, Jean-Eric Vergne thinks that there will inevitably be extra pressure on his shoulders. My team is French, I’m Parisian, I’ve had a complicated start to the season: it’s the moment when things must turn around, I need to have a good race.
But this high expectation must be bearable. For Alain Prost, it’s necessary to transform the pressure of the event into something positive. The Renault e.Dams team obviously needs to bounce back after a difficult last meeting in Long Beach, with only two modest points collected.
The informed opinion of the drivers on the track.
After the Friday midday press briefing, the drivers took advantage of the afternoon to explore on foot the menu of hostilities, which was presented to you in a previous article.
The drivers describe a fast but potentially tricky track.
We are very excited about this next bit – oh yes, it’s the #trackwalk! In Paris!!! #ParisePrix pic.twitter.com/i9aAxQACdC
— RENAULT e.dams (@RENAULTedams) April 22, 2016
“Trust me Ollie that pit entry looks pretty fast!” #ParisePrix #TrackWalk pic.twitter.com/Ig1TLVDIQK
— NEXTEV TCR (@NEXTEVTCR) April 22, 2016
For Jérôme d’Ambrosio, the track is as enjoyable as the scenery: « there aren’t too many bumps » notes the Belgian. The surface has indeed been improved and the famous Haussmann cobblestones have been temporarily covered.
Regarding overtaking opportunities, the first turn will be the circuit’s highlight. However, according to Jérôme d’Ambrosio, there are other possibilities between the fourth and fifth turns, then on the straight leading to the eighth turn. Finally, the main danger for drivers will certainly be the lack of run-off areas: As soon as there is a crash, the safety car will definitely be deployed.
Few doubts are allowed: this Paris ePrix promises a lot. Jérôme d’Ambrosio is one of its most zealous promoters: “This race will be unpredictable and very interesting for the fans!” he concluded. The MotorsInside editorial team will bring you this event throughout the day this Saturday.
From our special correspondent in Paris
