Evans Storms to Victory in Sao Paulo E-Prix with Historic Last-to-First Drive

Evans Storms to Victory in Sao Paulo E-Prix with Historic Last-to-First Drive

By Michael Harrison

December 8, 2024 at 03:01 AM

Mitch Evans delivered a stunning performance in the Sao Paulo E-Prix, charging from last place to claim victory in a chaotic Formula E season opener filled with multiple red flags and safety car periods.

Racing cars on indoor track

Racing cars on indoor track

Starting 22nd due to qualifying technical issues, Evans masterfully worked through the field to secure his 13th career win, matching the record held by Sebastien Buemi and Lucas di Grassi. The Jaguar TCS Racing driver held off TAG Heuer Porsche's Antonio Felix da Costa and NEOM McLaren rookie Taylor Barnard in the closing stages.

The 31-lap race, extended to 35 laps, saw multiple incidents including a safety car deployment following a collision between Jake Hughes and Nico Mueller. A dramatic moment occurred on lap 30 when Pascal Wehrlein's Porsche became airborne after contact with Evans at Turn 6, leading to a red flag.

Strategic Attack Mode usage proved crucial for Evans, who took the lead on lap 29. Despite having less energy than his competitors in the final stint, Evans defended brilliantly against da Costa and energy-rich Barnard to secure the win.

The top five finishers were:

  • Mitch Evans (Jaguar TCS Racing)
  • Antonio Felix da Costa (TAG Heuer Porsche)
  • Taylor Barnard (NEOM McLaren)
  • Sam Bird (NEOM McLaren)
  • Edoardo Mortara

Notable retirements included Nick Cassidy, Pascal Wehrlein, Jake Hughes, and Jake Dennis, with Robin Frijns failing to start due to brake system failure. Oliver Rowland, despite leading much of the race, finished 14th after receiving a drive-through penalty for power overuse.

This victory marks a redemptive moment for Evans, who lost last season's Sao Paulo E-Prix on the final lap, and sets a thrilling tone for the new Formula E season.

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