Statistics of the Event: Maximilian Günther, Practice Session Three // Third Position, Qualifying // Twelfth Place [1:10.993, Group A], Race // Ninth Place, Positions Improved // Plus Three, Quickest Lap // 1:11.089, Championship Standing // Fifth Place [20 points], Jehan Daruvala, Practice Session Three // Thirteenth Place, Qualifying // Fifth Place [1:10.786, Quarter-Final Four], Race // Did Not Finish, Positions Improved // Not Applicable, Quickest Lap // 1:11.136, Championship Standing // Twentieth Place [0 points], Maserati MSG Racing, Championship Standing // Eighth Place [20 points]
The team concludes the initial double-header of Season 10 with increased points in Diriyah.
The Summary
Maximilian Günther of Maserati MSG Racing showcased a commendable recovery performance during the latter segment of the 2024 Diriyah E-Prix double-header, maneuvering from eleventh to ninth at the Riyadh Street Circuit.
Following a competitive display in the initial race on Friday evening, in which Max secured seventh place, the Monaco-based team refined its setup further ahead of Saturday, aiming to extract more speed at the Saudi Arabian venue.
After securing third position in FP3, Max narrowly missed out on the qualifying duels from Group A, while rookie teammate Jehan Daruvala earned his inaugural duel appearance in Formula E by advancing to the Quarter-Finals from Group B.
Jehan engaged in a head-to-head battle against Nissan’s Oliver Rowland and delivered a performance worthy of fifth place on the grid despite losing to the eventual pole-sitter. Meanwhile, Max qualified twelfth but commenced the race from eleventh.
During an intensely contested opening lap, both Max and Jehan, unfortunately, lost ground but swiftly settled into the rhythm of the race, characterized by minimal energy conservation across the field.
Capitalizing on on-track developments, Max swiftly progressed into the top 10 while Jehan maintained his position in the points-scoring zone in only his third Formula E race start.
Regrettably, a technical malfunction forced Jehan to retire on lap 27 of 36, leaving Max as Maserati MSG Racing’s sole representative.
Maintaining ninth place while applying pressure on two-time champion Jean-Eric Vergne, Max remained in contention until the finish line, securing two points and accumulating eight points over the weekend.
Formula E’s tenth season is scheduled to resume on March 16. The series will return to São Paulo, Brazil, for the fourth race out of 16 in 2024.
In Their Own Words
Maximilian Günther, Driver, Maserati MSG Racing
“The day presented challenges for us. Our qualifying did not unfold as anticipated, and on the first lap, we dropped to twelfth place. However, we managed to reclaim several positions to finish ninth. We executed a commendable strategy, and I extend my gratitude to the team, particularly to Jehan, who supported me today. I believe we maximized our potential. Although it was not an ideal day, we achieved a respectable outcome. With three races completed, we have secured three points finishes, marking a strong start to the year. I am optimistic and eagerly anticipate the next race in São Paulo.”
Jehan Daruvala, Driver, Maserati MSG Racing
“My race today was challenging, but I found satisfaction in competing within the pack, running at the front, and gaining valuable experience. Advancing to the duels expanded my opportunities in the race, and for the most part, we were running within the points. Unfortunately, a technical issue forced me to retire. It’s disappointing, but reflecting on this weekend, I acknowledge personal growth and positive strides forward. I am eager to continue my journey in Formula E in Brazil.”
Cyril Blais, Chief Engineer, Maserati MSG Racing
“We encountered challenges in today’s race. With Jehan starting fifth and Max eleventh, we aimed for a double points finish, but the start proved arduous, leading to a loss of positions on the first lap. However, both drivers settled into a steady pace thereafter, and Max managed to recover positions to enter the top 10. Although Jehan faced setbacks activating Attack Mode, he performed admirably. Unfortunately, a car issue forced his retirement, denying him a well-deserved top 10 finish. Max secured ninth place, earning two points. While we recognize our capability for more, consistent points scoring holds significance in Formula E. Moving forward, we will analyze the initial three races, address areas for improvement, and aspire to contend at the forefront in Brazil.”
Giovanni Sgro, Head of Maserati Corse
“Both drivers demonstrated resilience until the race’s conclusion, with Max achieving a top 10 finish to garner crucial points, affirming a strong performance throughout the weekend. Jehan showcased commendable performance by securing fifth place in qualifying and maintaining a consistent presence within the points. Unfortunately, technical issues impeded his race. As we approach a lengthy break before the next race, we will build upon the positive start to this season, aiming to arrive at the grid with heightened determination.”
About Maserati S.p.A.
Maserati manufactures a comprehensive range of distinctive cars that are instantly identifiable by their exceptional character. Their unique style, advanced technology, and inherently exclusive nature captivate the most discerning, sophisticated tastes, establishing themselves as a benchmark in the global automotive industry. Boasting a legacy of successful models, each redefining the essence of an Italian sports car in terms of design, performance, comfort, elegance, and safety, Maserati’s lineup is currently available in over 70 markets worldwide. The Maserati range includes the Levante – the marque’s inaugural SUV, the Grecale – an “everyday exceptional” SUV, and the GranTurismo – an iconic Italian grand tourer, all distinguished by premium materials and outstanding technical solutions. The lineup features 4-cylinder hybrid powertrains – accessible for the Grecale and Levante – and V6 petrol engines, available in rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, embodying the performance DNA of the Trident Brand. At the pinnacle of the range lies the MC20 super sports car and the MC20 Cielo spyder, propelled by the groundbreaking 100% Maserati Nettuno V6 engine, integrating Formula 1-derived technologies into a standard production car power unit for the first time. The latest GranTurismo offers the high-performance V6 petrol engine, derived from the Nettuno, and a 100% electric variant: the GranTurismo Folgore, representing the brand’s first foray into electric propulsion. The full-electric lineup includes the Grecale Folgore, Maserati’s debut full-electric SUV. By 2025, all Maserati models will be available in full-electric versions, with the entire range transitioning to electric propulsion by 2028.
