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Maximilian Guenther and Oliver Rowland took center stage at the inaugural Jeddah E-Prix, claiming victories in Rounds 3 and 4 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. Guenther’s last-corner overtake in Round 3 secured his first win for DS PENSKE, while Rowland responded with a dominant drive in Round 4, extending his lead atop the Drivers’ World Championship. The introduction of the new PIT BOOST system added extra strategic layers to both races, setting the tone for a thrilling season ahead.
Key Highlights:
- Maximilian Guenther claimed victory in Round 3 with a last-corner overtake on Oliver Rowland, marking his first win for DS PENSKE.
- PIT BOOST made its debut, offering drivers strategic energy boosts.
- Oliver Rowland won Round 4, leveraging smart energy management and ATTACK MODE strategies to extend his Drivers’ Championship lead to 68 points.
- Taylor Barnard became the youngest-ever Formula E polesitter and finished second in Round 4.
- A historic all-British top four in Round 4 featured Rowland, Barnard, Jake Hughes, and Jake Dennis.
- Nissan now leads both the Teams’ and Manufacturers’ World Championships.
- The championship heads to Miami for Round 5 on April 12.
Round 3 Recap – Guenther’s Last-Lap Heroics
In a race marked by the introduction of PIT BOOST, Maximilian Guenther clinched a dramatic victory, overtaking Oliver Rowland at the final chicane. Despite losing places during the pit stop phase, Guenther’s patience and energy conservation paid off. His win also marked the first time in 17 races that a driver converted pole position into victory.
Guenther commented, “This win means everything to me… I believed until the end!”. Rowland, though disappointed, took solace in leading the Drivers’ Championship with 43 points.
Round 4 Recap – Rowland Strikes Back
Oliver Rowland secured redemption in Round 4 with a flawless drive, capitalizing on smart ATTACK MODE usage and the misfortunes of rivals António Félix da Costa and Guenther, who collided early. Rowland’s victory pushed him to 68 points, extending his Drivers’ Championship lead.
Taylor Barnard led early but had to defend aggressively, finishing second, while Jake Hughes celebrated his first podium for Maserati MSG Racing. Jake Dennis charged from 19th to 4th, marking a historic moment with four British drivers leading the field.
Rowland reflected, “It was great… I’m just trying to focus race by race and do the best job we can to score points.”
Championship Standings and What’s Next
- Drivers’ Championship: Oliver Rowland leads with 68 points, followed by Taylor Barnard on 51.
- Teams’ Championship: Nissan holds a narrow lead over NEOM McLaren.
- Manufacturers’ Championship: Nissan sits atop, ahead of Stellantis.
The series now heads to Miami for Round 5 on April 12, promising more electrifying action in the heart of the city streets.
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