Legendary Streets of Monaco Welcome NIO and Formula E this Weekend
World motorsport’s most iconic venue, the unmistakeable streets of Monte Carlo, will host the ninth round of the unpredictable ABB FIA Formula E Championship this coming Saturday, 11th May.
NIO is relishing the upcoming race in the Principality, not least because the team is resolutely determined to fight back after the Paris E-Prix two weeks ago where the squad was cruelly robbed of a double points finish.
Frenchman Tom Dillmann, was on course for a fantastic top 10 result following a season-best qualifying performance. However, damage sustained after a brush with the wall, though, triggered a luckless retirement from the rain-affected race.
Oliver Turvey also departed Paris ruing what might have been when his third points result of Season 5 went begging after unfortunate contact with Felipe Massa, which ultimately led to a costly drive-through penalty.
Despite missing out on deserved championship points a fortnight ago, there were many positives for NIO to take away after producing improved competitiveness in qualifying and race trim. In Monaco this weekend, points for both drivers are the only goal.
Oliver Turvey, Race Driver, NIO Formula E Team:
“I am really looking forward to racing in my second Monaco E-Prix, there is so much motorsport history racing around this iconic port so it will be quite special to race the NIO Formula E car on these famous streets. I have personally always had a special feeling racing in Monaco, having won my first race in the Principality in World Series [by Renault] so I can’t wait to get back out on this famous street track for NIO."
Tom Dillmann, Race Driver, NIO Formula E Team:
“It is always exciting racing in Monaco. It will be my first time on the Formula E circuit but I have raced in Monaco several times in other categories. Our aim will be to carry the momentum from Paris through the weekend and ultimately fight for points on Saturday afternoon. It will be an exciting race and I cannot wait.”
Gérry Hughes, Team Principal, NIO Formula E Team:
“Monaco really is the jewel in the crown for street circuits in world motorsport, and Monte Carlo harbour is such an iconic backdrop. It’s always an absolute delight to compete in the Principality and the NIO Formula E Team cannot wait to be back there for round nine of the season.
We were well on course to achieving our best team result of Season 5 during the Paris E-Prix, but unfortunately things conspired against us. We’re determined to qualify strongly again and push for points this weekend, qualifying is absolutely key in Monaco so that is the focus this weekend for NIO.”
Rd 9 Schedule, Saturday, 11th May: Monaco E-Prix
(all times local)
07.30 – Free Practice 1
10.00 – Free Practice 2
11.45 – Qualifying Group 1
11.55 – Qualifying Group 2
12.05 – Qualifying Group 3
12.15 – Qualifying Group 4
12.30 – Superpole (Top 6)
16.33 – Race (45mins +1 lap)
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