Formula E, Sportrik Media - Pascal Wehrlein has criticised the qualifying format following the 2026 Berlin E-Prix, arguing that peloton racing strategies are undermining its competitive relevance.
The Porsche driver secured pole position at Tempelhof, yet the race outcome highlighted a contrasting dynamic, with winner Mitch Evans starting from 17th on the grid. This further underlined the unique characteristics of Gen3-era Formula E racing.
In peloton-style races, drivers often conserve energy in the early stages by staying in the pack before exploiting energy advantages and Attack Mode later. This approach frequently diminishes the importance of starting position, particularly when early race pace is deliberately controlled.
This trend was amplified in Berlin, where several drivers opted to use older tyres in qualifying to preserve fresh sets for the race. As a result, grid positions were sacrificed in favour of strategic race advantages.
“I find it boring. How is it possible that everyone pushes in qualifying, and in the end some don’t even really try and can still win from the back,” Wehrlein said.
“In these races, being slow over one lap doesn’t matter anymore. You can start from the back, save energy, and still win.”
The approach has sparked debate within the paddock regarding the balance between energy strategy and the essence of one-lap competition. For Wehrlein, it diminishes the role of qualifying as a key performance indicator.
With Gen3 regulations still shaping the championship, discussions around race format and qualifying relevance are expected to continue. Attention now turns to the next round, where similar strategic patterns may again influence the outcome.
Baca Juga
Pascal Wehrlein kritik format kualifikasi Formula E Berlin 2026, soroti strategi peloton dan dampaknya pada hasil balapan.
Pascal Wehrlein kembali pimpin klasemen Formula E 2026 usai Berlin E-Prix, analisis strategi, energi, dan dampak ke perebutan gelar.
Mitch Evans pecahkan rekor kemenangan Formula E di Berlin 2026 lewat strategi energi, kini tempel ketat klasemen pembalap.
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