Felix Rosenqvist said he was shocked to have managed to get pole in the Marrakesh ePrix, before then going on to challenge for victory.
The Swede secured Mahindra Racing’s first ever pole position after just managing to pip Sebastien Buemi in the super-pole shootout.
He then pulled out an impressive gap at the front of the pack ahead of the pit stops, although he was eventually passed by Buemi and Sam Bird when his energy levels were running low at the end.
Rosenqvist said, “We knew we had really good pace and the guys have been putting a good package together for qualifying especially.
“However, I’m still a bit shocked that we were able to get pole in just my second weekend in Formula E.
“Starting the race from pole, if you had told me before the race that I would finish third, I would have signed up for it immediately!”
Despite finishing third Rosenqvist says he thinks the team were able to get the most out of the car.
“There was great communication with Andres [Castillo – race engineer] on the radio; the team was there all the time supporting me and I think we nailed the race as well as we could have done.
“The first stint was fantastic, and in the second stint there were a combination of small things that meant we weren’t quite as competitive.
“That was maybe the sad part, but in the end we have to be proud.”
His boss, Team Principal Dilbagh Gill was also delighted with Rosenqvist’s efforts, and said that it reflected the effort the team had put into this season’s car.
“It has been a great day for Mahindra Racing and it’s very satisfying to be able to check off another first for the team.
“Felix’s pole lap was really impressive at only his second event and also really shows how much work we have put into the new M3Electro.”
Nick Heidfeld also managed to finish in the points down in ninth, meaning that Mahindra are enjoying their best ever start to a season in Formula E with 36 points.
