Mahindra Racing has announced that Roberto Merhi will once again join the team for the Portland E-Prix on June 24th, marking his second event in Season 9 of the FIA Formula E World Championship. Following his debut in the electric street racing series earlier this month at the double-header in Jakarta, Merhi will pilot the #8 Mahindra M9Electro alongside Lucas Di Grassi as the championship heads to Portland for the first time.
In his debut race, Merhi started last but managed to finish 18th by the end. In the next race, he qualified 21st and finished 17th after a couple of retirements mid-race. Since the upcoming race is on a new circuit, no driver holds an experience advantage. That works in favour of Roberto Merhi as he will have a better chance of showcasing his talent. And with two races under his belt, his understanding of the car will also have improved.
Speaking about his comeback, Merhi said, “I am very happy to be back in Portland with Mahindra Racing. After Jakarta, I now have more experience in the car, which will help me a lot and I will be able to keep improving from where we left off. I think the fact that it is a new circuit for everyone will be beneficial as everyone will start with the same experience level on the track. I have been working hard with my engineers and the team to learn to adjust my driving style to the unique Formula E car. Let’s see how it goes in the next race, but I am optimistic that we can make a good step forward. I would like to thank Mahindra Racing for the confidence and support in me.”
The Southwire Portland E-Prix, set to take place on June 24th, promises an exciting and unpredictable race as the Formula E teams and drivers navigate a new track and vie for crucial championship points.