South Korea race report R16
14 August 2022: NIO 333 Formula E Team endured a rollercoaster of emotions on the final day of the 2022 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship in Seoul today.
In the best Qualifying session of the season for the Anglo-Chinese team, Dan Ticktum secured a fourth row starting grid position by setting the 7th fastest time in the #33 NIO 333 FE 001 from Group B. Unfortunately, after a rapid start which saw Dan run in P6 after the opening corner, he clipped the wall at Turn 7 and sustained damage to his car that forced him to retire from the race.
Oliver displayed another mature and measured drive, making up five places throughout the Round 16 contest to bring the #3 NIO 333 FE 001 home in provisional P15.
The Team concludes Season 8 of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship, and the Gen2 era of the all-electric series, in 10th position in the Teams’ Championship with seven points, with drivers Oliver Turvey and Dan Ticktum in 18th (6 points) and 21st (one point) positions in the Drivers’ competition respectively.
Oliver Turvey, #3 NIO 333 FE 001
Free Practice 3: P10
Qualifying Group A – Race Grid Position: P20
Round 16 Provisional Race Result: P15 (after post-race penalties applied)
“After being in the top ten in Free Practice 3, it was frustrating to end up P10 in my group in qualifying despite a reasonable lap. On the first lap of the race, I got hit from behind causing a rear puncture. After a quick pitstop by the mechanics, we stayed on the lead lap and with the safety car closed up to the pack. After the restart I managed to overtake a couple of cars and had a good fight with the cars around us to cross the finish line in P13 which was a strong recovery. It was a shame to miss out on points, but felt we ended the season fighting with a strong race.”
Dan Ticktum, #33 NIO 333 FE 001
Free Practice 3: P15
Qualifying Group B – Race Grid Position: P7
Round 16 Provisional Race Result: DNF
“Overall, we made some good progress over the year, and I think that today, especially in qualifying, that was pretty evident. Mechanically the car has been good for the second half of the season particularly, and today, systems wise, it was all in the window, and we hooked it up. It’s Gen3 next, but I’m sure there’s a lot we can take from this season to next year.
In the race today, I was just trying to be too perfect unfortunately, and I clipped the wall at turn 7. I knew I’d have to be inch perfect to stay in the points, but unfortunately it was not to be. It’s really disappointing and I am very sorry for the team and want to thank them so much for all their hard work this season.”
Russell O’Hagan, COO/ Deputy Team Principal
“Today was a day of real highs and lows. Dan making the duels in qualifying was the realisation of improved one lap pace we have had in the car since the early part of the season, and it was great to see that come together. A strong start to the race saw Dan up in 6th before an incident brought his race to a premature end. Oliver having suffered contact in lap one stopped for repairs and then drove a very strong race to save energy until the safety car. He then pushed through the field with some great overtakes, fighting until the line.
Overall, I’m proud of what we achieved in many areas across the season, technically and operationally. It’s been rewarding to finish the season and Gen2 era showing such promise and we know we are heading in to Gen3 relishing a fresh challenge and determined to take a big step forward.
I want to say a huge thank you especially to our Primary Partner, NIO; to all of our Team Partners for their continued support; and a big thank you to Formula E and the FIA for a great season of racing. Congratulations to Mercedes on both Championship titles; it’s well deserved.
Finally, I have to thank everyone in the team in China and the UK, and our drivers, for the relentless efforts and great spirits this year – the hard work will pay off soon. Roll on Season 9.”
