Formula E – Buemi’s good move in Uruguay

Sébastien Buemi won his first victory at the Punta del Este ePrix (Uruguay) by winning ahead of Nelson Piquet Jr (China Racing) and Lucas di Grassi (Audi Sport Abt), even if the Swiss driver spent the second part of the race behind.resist the pressure from pole sitter Jean-Éric Vergne (Andretti Autosport) who ultimately had to retire two laps from the finish. “I knew he was going to use his “Fanboost”. I was a little too careful in the last loops because I was still trying to conserve energy. I locked my rear wheels twice at the chicane during the (last) restart and I was really at the limit. »

This success won after a podium in Putrajaya (Malaysia) allows the world champion of WEC de return to second place tied with Sam Bird (Virgin Racing) who retired, with 18 points behind Championship leader Lucas di Grassi (Audi Sport Abt). " I am very happy ", added Sébastien Buemi. “The team gave me a great car and did a great job, including a perfectly executed pit stop. We really improved the car between testing and the race. I was able to keep things under control even if it was heated with Vergne at the end. »

The weekend would have been perfect for edams if Nicolas Cheers had not received a drive through for too high energy consumption. But the Frenchman was still able to win the points seventh place. “I am frustrated with this position because I had the potential to get a podium. I am satisfied with my performance in qualifying (3rd). Everything went well until this problem with energy consumption. But we know that the performances are there and the wind will eventually turn in a favorable direction. »

This team result allows the team of Jean-Paul Driot and Alain Prost to take the lead in the Teams ranking two units ahead of Audi Sport Abt. “I’m really happy, especially after the difficult start to the season for Sébastien (abandonment in Beijing)”, commented the four-time world champion of F1. “He had a fantastic victory after a very close race. On the other hand, I am a little disappointed for Nicolas. The Championship is very competitive and we must constantly remain on our guard. »

Discover the report of the Punta del Este ePrix in issue 1991 of AUTOhebdo, available from tomorrow evening in digital version on all platforms, and from Wednesday on newsstands.