In a high-stakes Formula E race in Rome, a startling collision unfolded on the sixth turn of the ninth lap. Sam Bird, leading the competition for Jaguar, seemed to lose control over his vehicle, causing it to slam into a barrier and spin back onto the track. Bird’s car, immobile after the collision, occupied a blind corner—described as “probably the most dangerous on this track” by Lucas di Grassi, the 2016/17 Formula E champion.
Bird’s vehicle formed a sudden obstacle for the oncoming drivers, speeding at significant velocities, resulting in disastrous collisions. Envision Racing’s Sebastien Buemi slightly hit Bird’s car, veering off a wall, while Edoardo Mortara from Maserati MSG Racing smashed straight into Bird’s side. This initiated an immediate red flag and a 45-minute pause in the race. A total of six drivers were unable to continue due to the crash.
The Aftermath: Resilience and Recovery
The drivers affected by the collision expressed frustration, with Buemi’s expletive-ridden outburst demonstrating his disappointment. Nevertheless, no severe injuries were reported, a testament to the robust safety measures implemented by the FIA and Formula E.
Despite the wreckage caused by the accident, teams worked tirelessly overnight to mend their cars for the subsequent race. An immense cooperative effort was made to share parts and ensure as many vehicles as possible were ready for the second race of the doubleheader.
Remarkably, all the drivers implicated in the crash were able to compete in the following race. Bird clinched third place, Buemi ended fourth, and Mortara finished fifth. This incident underscored the resilience and unity within the Formula E community as they collectively overcame adversity and resumed racing.
