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Maserati MSG Racing Faces Challenges During Monaco E-Prix Weekend Amid Rain And Performance Issues
Maserati MSG Racing faced a challenging weekend during the Monaco double header. Despite improvements in qualifying, rain and mixed race conditions led to fewer points than anticipated. Both drivers, Stoffel Vandoorne and Jake Hughes, felt progress had been made overnight. However, the unpredictable weather disrupted strategies, impacting their performance on the iconic street circuit.
Stoffel Vandoorne excelled in wet qualifying conditions, securing third in Group B and advancing to the duels. He faced former teammate Vergne in the quarter-final but couldn't surpass him, ending with a respectable fifth place on the grid. Meanwhile, Jake Hughes narrowly missed the duels due to rear locking at Turn 8, finishing seventh in Group A.
Monaco's track makes overtaking difficult, so qualifying is crucial. The low energy consumption nature of this E-Prix further emphasised its importance. Jake's usual energy conservation strategy was ineffective without Pit Boost in Round 7. Stoffel also struggled to maintain pace within the top ten due to tyre temperature issues.
The race proved quiet for both drivers, with tyre grip not meeting expectations. Jake collided with CUPRA Kiro’s Beckmann, receiving a five-second penalty that didn't affect his position due to other penalties and a significant gap behind him. Stoffel finished tenth, gaining one point but unable to advance through the pack as hoped.
Cyril Blais, Team Principal of Maserati MSG Racing, expressed disappointment over their performance at their home race. "It feels like we take one step forwards but then two steps back," he noted. The team plans to regroup and prepare for Tokyo's upcoming double header.
Reflections from Drivers
Jake Hughes reflected on missed opportunities with Attack Mode timing and tyre grip struggles. "In the penultimate lap, we managed to back off and do the warmup we would do in qualifying," he explained. This helped regain pace towards the end of the race.
Stoffel Vandoorne shared his frustration: "Starting from fifth, I thought we were going to be in good shape...but it just felt very difficult from the start." He acknowledged their need to learn from this experience and improve for future races.
Maserati's Commitment
Maria Conti, Head of Maserati Corse, highlighted the emotional significance of racing in Monaco as they approach Maserati's centennial celebration in motor racing next year. She praised the team's dedication despite challenges faced during this double header.
Maserati S.p.A continues producing unique cars known for style and technology across over 70 markets globally. Their lineup includes models like Grecale SUV and GranTurismo Folgore electric vehicle alongside high-performance options such as MC20 super sports car powered by Nettuno V6 engine incorporating F1-derived technologies into standard production cars.
Maserati MSG Racing remains committed to sustainability while competing at motorsport’s highest level since joining FIA Formula E World Championship as founding members back in December 2013 under leadership from Cyril Blais who prioritises technical innovation alongside excellence within team operations today.
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