‘Emotional’ Bird wins in Saudi after Lynn crash
RIYADH: Britain’s Sam Bird, behind the wheel of a Jaguar, won the second Diriyah Formula E race in the Saudi capital on Saturday as compatriot Alex Lynn survived a terrifying crash.
Bird finished ahead of Dutchman and pole-sitter Robin Frijns of Virgin Racing and French driver Jean-Eric Vergne in a DS Techeetah.
However, Vergne was later penalised by 24 seconds for not having taken his second “attack mode” and finally finished 12th.
Portugal’s Antonio Felix da Costa, in another DS Techeetah, moved into the final podium spot instead.
An “attack mode” gives drivers an extra boost of power but they have to use it through a designated area off the racing line.
“I was a bit emotional in the car,” said Bird.
“It was a big move and a big step for me moving away from what was my family in Envision Virgin Racing to join Jaguar Racing, but they’ve welcomed me with open arms and I’m pleased to deliver this win.
The race ended three laps early when red flags came out following an accident suffered by Lynn whose Mahindra car skidded and overturned on the tight circuit.
Friday’s opening race of the floodlit double-header was won by Nyck de Vries in a Mercedes.
The next round of the all-electric series takes place in Rome on Apr 10.