Lucas di Grassi has said that his second place in the Hong Kong ePrix ‘feels like a win’ after he recovered from the back of the field.
The Brazilian had a torrid start to the weekend after a crash in qualifying left him starting second last on the grid.
He managed to make up some places at the start, but contact with Ma Qing Hua left his front wing damaged.
This led to him being called in by the race stewards under a black and orange flag, and following a nose change he was once again at the back of the field.
However he ended up claiming an unlikely podium after his team made an inspired strategy call to pit after the safety car was deployed a few laps before the midway point of the race.
It meant that he was able to pull up to the back of the safety car, so when the rest of the field eventually pitted for their second car he assumed the lead.
Although he was eventually passed by Sebastien Buemi, di Grassi was still delighted with his result. He said, “This second place feels like a win, I’m overjoyed.
“The race showed once again that it’s really only over when you take the checkered flag in Formula E. Thanks to my team that was brave today and showed that we never give up.
“This is an important message to the competition for the new season.”
It wasn’t a great race for his team-mate, Daniel Abt. The German made a good start from seventh on the grid, but sustained damage to his rear wing on the opening lap.
This led to an early change to his second car, therefore ending any chance he had of finishing the race.
Despite this he was optimistic following di Grassi’s strong showing, saying “Lucas’ trophy is great for the team’s moral.
“Almost more important is, however, the knowledge that we have produced a race car together with our partners that is on the pace and capable of winning race.”
