Image: Formula E
Sam Bird talked to Dada about the nature of the Portland International Raceway and how the NEOM McLaren can perform in group races. Bird arrives in America with all the chances of achieving a favorable result this weekend, and the experienced English driver is confident in his preparation and the team’s preparation.
“Certainly. I believe that each individual driver, each individual team has an opportunity on this specific circuit, on this specific track. We have done our research, we are very pleased with what we have achieved in the simulator, learning from previous races.
“I think our ability to achieve excellent performance in a group race has improved compared to before, so yes, I am looking forward to it.”
In preparation for the weekend, it was revealed that a planned chicane to be implemented near the pit entry wall was canceled by the FIA due to safety concerns, a decision that Bird agrees with, adding that he is not a fan of this type of addition.
“I think it was too risky, so I believe this is the best option.
“We have tried some circuits this year and the corners were not pleasant in certain areas. I won’t mention specific circuits or corners, but if we are going to race on a circuit, we should race on the circuit as it is. That’s my opinion anyway.”
Bird’s season was, of course, shortened by a bone fracture in his left hand during FP1 in Monaco, which caused him to miss that race and the following weekend in Berlin. Returning in Xangai, Bird is fully recovered – “Ready to go, no excuses” – and also praises Taylor Barnard, who replaced him on both weekends.
“Taylor did an excellent job. He was an excellent substitute, a very strong and dedicated young man, and it has been great to have him on board and continue to have him on board.
“Your work in the simulator is invaluable, so yes, it is a valuable asset for the team.
“I don’t know what his plans are for next year. He will probably be highly sought after in F2 and maybe even in Formula E, depending on what he wants to do. But certainly, when he was here, he had an extremely good performance.”
The 10th season is approaching its critical phase, and it is natural to reflect on the season. Bird is philosophical and optimistic about his and the team’s performance in 2024, but recognizes the need for improvements.
“I think it has been promising for the team. We have achieved some podiums, even a victory, and Jake achieved his best result in Formula E. So, I don’t think it has been a disappointing season. I believe we have made progress in many aspects this year, although we haven’t accumulated as many points as we would have liked.
“There have been several occasions where we have shown great speed, but we haven’t been able to convert it into points, which is discouraging.
“Obviously, I missed a significant part of the season. However, we have already won a race this year, and I think it was a significant step for the whole team. It gives us confidence for the last four races, that we can replicate that success.”
Thoughts will also turn to the next season, after the release of the Season 11 calendar two weeks ago. Bird is optimistic about what the new season holds, but recognizes that there may be changes before the first race in São Paulo in December.
“It is still too early to say. I have been in this championship for 10 years and I have noticed that the calendar tends to change after being initially released. What we see now may not be what we will see in a few months. This is part of Formula E. We deal with local governments and councils, and things can change. But so far, the calendar looks promising. There are some improvements in terms of spacing, which will benefit the team personnel, especially the mechanics and engineers. Overall, it is a step forward. We also have GEN 3.5 to look forward to. However, we have to keep in mind that the calendar is subject to changes, and many things can happen before the start of the season.”
The next season is the biggest in the history of Formula E and sends a strong message from the championship. However, the inclusion of more double-header races and the physical demands they bring, as well as Bird’s preference for single-race events, have made him think.
“Having a weekend with two races in Monaco is a big step, but double-header races are extremely demanding for everyone involved. It is different from Formula 1, where there is more time between sessions. In Formula E, everything is condensed into one day, so race days are brutal. Personally, I prefer single events. It makes them more special because you have two different winners. Adding more races to the championship is great for its credibility, but single races have a unique charm if you are the winner of the whole event.”
Bird believes that the new GEN3 Evo car, with its improved speed and efficiency, has the potential to attract more fans to the series. However, he acknowledges that Formula E, still relatively young at ten years old, still has a long way to go.
“I believe that the new car can help us gain more followers. We had a great leap from GEN1 to GEN2, but COVID had a greater impact on Formula E compared to Formula 1, which gained traction through Drive to Survive. Formula 1 is a great spectacle and a big money generator in motorsport. We are also a great spectacle, but it is challenging when Formula 1 reaches a different level. We are improving slowly and gaining traction, but not at the pace we were a few years ago. However, I believe we have the potential to continue growing year after year.”
When asked about the possibility of Formula E collaborating with a streaming service to create a reality show program, similar to what Formula 1 did successfully, Bird suggests that this is a decision for the higher ranks of Formula E. However, he acknowledges that such a program could elevate the drivers to superstar status and bring significant sponsorships to the series.
“I’m not the right person to discuss this matter. But yes, collaborating with a streaming service could turn us drivers into superstars and attract major sponsorships to the series, drivers, and teams. This would open up new opportunities for everyone involved. But for now, it’s just speculation. It’s like saying, ‘What would I do if I won the lottery?’ Well, I haven’t won yet.”
With the GEN3 Evo car still on his mind, Bird acknowledges that this is the time of the season when teams start focusing on developing their cars for Season 11. Lola and DS Penske have already started testing their new cars, and McLaren and other teams will likely follow suit. However, Bird keeps McLaren’s plans secret.
“Not yet… It’s all a secret. There’s a schedule, and I know we’ll have some time in the car before we go to Valencia. I’m looking forward to driving the new car.”
“There’s a lot to learn, especially with the new hardware, software, and strategy tools. There will be a learning curve and some adjustments to be made. But we’re a world-class racing team, and I have the tools to adapt. So, it should be manageable.”
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Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton secured another victory in the Brazilian Grand Prix on Sunday. The British driver, who had already clinched the world title, dominated the race from start to finish, leaving his competitors behind. With this win, Hamilton solidifies himself as one of the greatest names in Formula 1 history.
The race at Interlagos Circuit was thrilling from beginning to end, with several overtakes and tense moments. However, Hamilton showcased his skill and didn’t give the other competitors a chance. He crossed the finish line with a lead of over 10 seconds to the second-placed driver.
This victory is another milestone in Hamilton’s career, who already has seven world titles. The British driver is breaking records and becoming a living legend of Formula 1. At only 35 years old, Hamilton still has much to achieve and promises to continue surprising his fans in the upcoming seasons.
In addition, the Brazilian Grand Prix was also marked by other highlights. Max Verstappen, from the Red Bull team, had an excellent race and finished in the second position. The Dutch driver showcased skill and determination as he overtook his competitors and secured a place on the podium.
Another highlight of the race was Sergio Perez, from the Racing Point team. The Mexican driver had a consistent race and finished in third place. This achievement is especially significant for Perez, who recently announced his departure from the team and is looking for a new team for the next season.
Overall, the Brazilian Grand Prix was an exciting race full of twists and turns. Hamilton once again showed why he is considered one of the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history. With his talent and determination, he continues to write his name in the sport’s history books.
