Vandoorne: ‘Stupid’ mistake led to Santiago FE crash

FIA Formula E rookie Stoffel Vandoorne says he is “extremely disappointed” with the “stupid” mistake that led to him crashing out of the Santiago E-Prix.

The HWA Racelab driver had impressed in Chile after qualifying fifth on the grid in his first Super Pole outing and running inside the top five for much of the race, before he made a costly error that sent him into the Turn 3 wall on lap 18. 

Vandoorne’s Venturi-powered car suffered heavy suspension damage in the impact and while the ex-McLaren Formula 1 driver was able to limp back to the pits, he had no option but to retire for the second successive race. 

“Extremely disappointed with my stupid mistake,” Vandoorne said. “That was a frustrating race for me. 

“We were fifth at the start and had decent pace, but it was not easy to stay with the leading group. With that in mind, we still have a bit of work ahead of us. 

“After the safety car phase, I was a little too wide in turn three and ended up in the wall. Unfortunately, that was it for me. 

“I am cross with myself for making that mistake. It is a great shame, as we were in a position to score points. I’m sorry for the whole team.”

With Gary Paffett finishing a lap down and last of the remaining runners in 14th, the Mercedes-affiliate squad is now the only team yet to register a point after three rounds of FE’s 2018/19 campaign. 

"We experienced both highs and lows,” added HWA team principal Ulrich Fritz. 

“P5 for Stoffel in qualifying was a great result. However, the race was disappointing again. 

“It was all looking good at first and Stoffel was able to establish himself in the top six. Unfortunately, he then had a crash and his race was over. 

“With regard to Gary, I would say that he did his job and finished the race. 

“That was our main goal for today, as every kilometre of racing means useful information for the future for us.”