The final free practice session of the Monaco E-Prix has now ended and with all 20 drivers making the most of their remaining time, qualifying, like yesterday, should be exciting. In this session, the margins are even smaller, Nico Müller leading the group.
Every Laps is Important
As the drivers hit the circuit, it was clear that they were not holding back. Today’s FP3 allowed the drivers to use what they leant from qualifying and the race yesterday, and practice it this morning – a small luxury from a double header.
Mitch Evans was early on the track, but soon experienced some issues which meant his run time was limited. Achieving P2 in yesterday’s race, he will be hungry for the win, and so getting the issue fixed before qualifying will be key. Despite the early problems, he was able to get back onto the track to complete a lap good enough for 5th fastest.
Pushing Past the Limit
With everyone trying to go full out, there were many instances of drivers locking up, or coming close to disaster. The Lola Yamaha of Lucas Di Grassi had a close call coming into turn 1. He was lucky to evade any damage, not contacting the wall at all. After spinning the car around, he rejoined the session, finishing 17th.
Turn 1 has been a lock-up nightmare this weekend, as Free Practice 3 ended, Jake Dennis of Andretti and Sebastien Buemi of Envision, both dove into the run-off, only seconds apart. They too were able to get the car under control and did not suffer any contact. Throughout the session, there were numerous other drivers who also had small scares.
Joel Eriksson of Envision had a minor scrape with the pit exit. A piece of debris came off the car and was left in the area, but luckily, the session had concluded. He finished 15th fastest, after having a very successful first Monaco E-Prix yesterday.
Mahindra Still on Fire
It was Nico Müller of Porsche Formula E team who ended this session fastest, with a time to beat of 1:26.491. Close behind him, was the Mahindra of Edoardo Mortara. His teammate, and yesterday’s race winner Nyck De Vries, found himself down in 7th at the chequered flag. The two drivers opted to end their sessions early, being content with their laps.
3rd and 4th was occupied by the Penske duo Maximilian Günther and Taylor Barnard. Behind Evans, yesterday’s pole sitter Dan Ticktum finished 6th quickest in the session. The Brit will hope to recreate the magic from yesterday, following his race demotion.