In a tactical race, Taylor Barnard and Maximilian Günther struggled in traffic, preventing DS Penske from securing top positions.
The French-American team showed its competitive side in the second Formula E race in Jeddah (Saudi Arabia).
Taylor Barnard and Maximilian Günther maintained a solid pace throughout the day, but the final result—just one point—leaves a mixed impression. In the oppressive heat of this February Saturday on the Red Sea, the action began with the third free practice session of the weekend, which lasted 40 minutes.
In challenging conditions, the two DS E-TENSE FE25s remained in the top 10, confirming their promising form from the previous day. The data collected in the 300 kW configuration—the mode used in qualifying groups—was particularly encouraging. Barnard even set the second-fastest time overall in this setting. Two hours later, with temperatures still high, both DS Penske drivers found themselves in the same qualifying group – this time right at the start of the session.
The conditions were different from the previous day: the track had changed less, and the effect of the “green track” was significantly reduced due to the short ten-minute format. Günther prevailed in this delicate exercise.
With the second-fastest time in his group, he advanced to the duel phase, where he faced reigning world champion Oliver Rowland. Although he lost to the Nissan driver, Günther secured sixth place on the starting grid. “Rowland was faster, but it was a good lap. The car is fast, and I have a good feeling,” explained the German driver. Barnard, meanwhile, had to settle for 17th place on the grid and the prospect of a comeback.
A race without pit boost, but with a lot of calculation
The race was very different from the previous day. Without pit boost, everything in this second round depended on energy management and optimal use of Attack Mode. The distance was also shortened by one lap by the race organizers. A clear signal for a high pace.
After a quiet start, Günther opted for a cautious approach and deliberately stayed in the middle of the field to save energy. Barnard worked continuously with his race engineer to refine his strategy during the race.
At the front, the lead changed several times, while the field remained relatively controlled. The first Attack Modes were triggered around lap ten. The DS Penske drivers deliberately activated their boosts at the same time in order to move forward together in the second half of the race.
Despite the additional power and the temporary four-wheel drive, traffic and close battles for position initially prevented any major progress. Barnard still managed to make it into the top 10, while Günther initially remained just outside the points.
With eight laps to go, both drivers held off activating their second attack mode until the last moment to get the most out of the end of the race. This strategy paid off for Barnard.
He fought his way impressively from 17th on the grid to tenth place, earning a well-deserved point.
Günther narrowly missed out on the top 10 and saw the checkered flag in eleventh place, directly behind his teammate. The next round of the Formula E World Championship will take place on March 21 at the Circuit de Jarama near Madrid, Spain.