Saturday, 29 June 2024

Hear from NEOM McLaren Formula E Team drivers Jake Hughes, Sam Bird, and Team Principal Ian James after Round 13 in Portland.

Free Practice 2	1:09.196	P10
Qualifying	1:14.601	P19*
Race		P7

"That’s race one in the books here in Portland. I’m happy that I have been able to score points today for the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team. I think we executed a strong race. We probably could’ve gotten a bit more out of today – at one point we were running in P2. 

“We’ve learnt a lot ready for tomorrow’s race and I hope we can score some more good points then.” 

*Sam qualified P17 but served a 5-place grid penalty, awarded to him following the last race event

Free Practice 2	1:09.353	P16
Qualifying	1:08.925	P2**
Race		P21

“Today started out positively, but ended up not being as good in terms of results and points – at least on my side of the garage. The whole team, including everyone here at track and in Bicester and Woking, did a good job. They gave me a car that was capable of challenging for pole position and ultimately starting on the front row. 

“For the first five laps of the race, everything was going to plan. I was running at the front of the grid, at times in the lead. Unfortunately, I was hit by another car which resulted in a puncture and essentially finished my race. I was nearly one lap down and didn’t score any points. 

“However, we have to take solace from the fact that the car was quick, I was competitive at the front of the race while that lasted, and I’ll take that into tomorrow.” 

**Jake qualified P3 but was promoted to P2 following a penalty awarded to a competitor

“Although the result of today’s race is frustrating, given that both Jake and Sam were at the sharp end during different stages, it’s worth reflecting on how far we have come since we last raced here in Portland. The positives include another strong qualifying for Jake and a great battle through the field for Sam.  

“However, when we know that we have the potential to go for the podium, so we can’t be satisfied with a handful of points. The team is already working hard on preparations for tomorrow. We’ll need to qualify well with both cars and then use the experience and expertise within the team to achieve a strong result.” 

Championship Standings

NEOM McLaren Formula E Team: P6 (95 points)  

Jake Hughes: P10 (46 points)  

Sam Bird: P11 (44 points)

Taylor Barnard: P23 (5 points)