Jérémy's Notebook

Since joining the calendar in 2018, the Riyadh Street Circuit has hosted some of Formula E’s most breathtaking overtakes and dramatic moments and presents an undulating ride through the deserts of Diriyah.

Every twist and turn requires expertise, and with 18 victories, 34 podiums and four championship titles in Formula E to date, ROKiT Venturi Racing Chief Engineer, Jérémy Colançon, is a leading light in the series’ paddock.

In 2021, Jérémy was named as Formula E’s Engineer of the Year and as an invaluable asset to Monaco’s only racing team, provides the inside line on the technical challenges we can expect during Season 8’s opener.

‍

Overtaking – The Riyadh Street Circuit is a technical track and as a result, there are only a handful of overtaking opportunities each lap. Turn 18 is a key chance to pass another driver and last season, we saw Edo overtake two cars into this corner using Attack Mode. Expect a lot of action here on race day.

‍

Energy Management – In comparison to other circuits on the calendar, Diriyah is quite light in terms of energy consumption. Turns One, 18 and 21 mark key opportunities to regenerate power. Due to increased power with 220kW in race mode and 250kW in Attack Mode, we will need to lift and coast earlier into corners although cooler air temperatures during the race should make it easier to save energy.

‍

Safety Cars – Diriyah is Formula E’s fastest circuit and combining this with its technicality, it is one of the most challenging tracks on the calendar. As a result, there is a high chance of multiple Safety Car and Full Course Yellow periods. Expect some time extensions on race day.

‍

Qualifying – Formula E’s new qualifying format is very challenging and defining a good strategy during each stage will be crucial to secure a good position on the grid. Tyre management will play a factor and it will be important to be in an optimal state when the circuit is at its fastest.

‍

Strategy – Because overtaking can be difficult in Diriyah, Attack Mode will be a key strategic advantage. With a high chance of Safety Car and Full Course Yellow periods, timing our deployment around this will be crucial although luck will also be a major factor.