Formula E fans can look forward to an exciting final weekend: With second place Lucas di Grassi scored valuable points as Moscow hosted the electric race series and in doing so kept his title hopes alive. Daniel Abt rounded off the good team result for ABT Sportsline with a fifth place in the spectacle in Russia’s capital city.
A race track directly in front of the Kremlin, autograph sessions and the podium on the Red Square: spectators in Moscow enjoyed an inspirational Formula E premiere in Russia’s capital city. And yet another thrilling race, in which Lucas di Grassi played a leading role again. The Brazilian from ABT Sportsline took second place behind championship leader Nelson Piquet and scored valuable points in the title fight, which nears its conclusion with just two races to go.
“The success today was exactly the right answer to the race in Berlin. We showed everybody that we never give up and can win at any time,” said Lucas di Grassi. However, the Brazilian was not completely happy. Reason: although he was making huge inroads towards the end of the race, he had to manage the temperature of the standard battery. “I had a huge amount of energy leftover and would love to have attacked Nelson. We’ll take a close look at exactly what was the reason for this before the next race.”
Daniel Abt scored important points for the teams’ championship, which is still undecided. The German made a perfect start, defended his position and crossed the finish line in fifth place. It was the sixth point scoring finish in nine race and the second best result of the season. “No trophy like in Miami, but finally another good result after two difficult races,” said Daniel Abt. “I made a fantastic start and overtook two cars. Afterwards, it was a race without any unusual events – but this was just fine for me.”
The last two races of the season are held in London on June 27-28. Going into the showdown, Lucas di Grassi moved up to second place overall 17 points behind the championship leader. There are 25 points on offer per race; in addition, there are three extra points for pole position and two for the fastest race lap. Daniel Abt jumped into the championship top ten again following his result in Moscow. ABT Sportsline retakes second position in the teams’ classification.
“Congratulations to Lucas. He’s taken a sixth trophy in the ninth race – more than any other on the grid has. Daniel’s efforts have also finally been rewarded with a good result,” said Team Boss Hans-Jürgen Abt. “My praise today goes not only to our drivers, but to the entire team. We were under pressure, but stayed cool and showed what we are made of.” Like the racing drivers, Abt also drew a positive summary over the first appearance of Formula E in Moscow. “The whole event was more than impressive: great backdrops, fantastic fans and perfect organization. The Moscow ePrix is definitely one of the highlights in Formula E and its short history.”
