Drivers give Hong Kong Formula E track the thumbs up amidst public backlash
Some residents have criticised traffic disruptions, expensive tickets and barriers blocking the public’s view of the track in the build-up to the opening race of the third season of the innovative series
Formula E’s Hong Kong debut may not have delighted everyone in the city, but Sunday’s race has won over some key supporters – the drivers.
Some residents have criticised traffic disruptions, expensive tickets and barriers blocking the public’s view of the track in the build-up to the opening race of the third season of the innovative series.
But as the 20 drivers who will pilot the all-electric vehicles at speeds of up to 200km/h through the streets of Central’s Harbourfront got their first look at the 1.8km track during a 30-minute ‘shakedown’ session on Saturday, they couldn’t have been more excited.
Audi ABT-Schaeffler’s Lucas di Grassi, last season’s series runner-up, is among several familiar with the region, having won the Formula 3 Macau Grand Prix in 2005.
“I would love to add Hong Kong to my Macau title,” said the Brazilian. “To be the first ever winner in Hong Kong would be amazing and I hope this race stays for a very long time.