Despite missing out on points, Lola Yamaha ABT delivered an encouraging performance in Race 1 of the 2026 Formula E Berlin E-Prix. The first race of the double-header featured intense action and dramatic position changes, with battles erupting from the opening lap. Eduardo Mortara led the field from pole, but drivers like Lola Yamaha ABT’s Zane Maloney and Lucas di Grassi made bold moves through the pack, briefly challenging for the lead of Race 1 in Berlin. Although the second half of the race ultimately left the team out of contention for victory or points, they impressed with strategic intelligence and competitive pace, offering a clear glimpse of their potential in upcoming races.
Di Grassi shows resiliance amid setbacks as Lola Yamaha ABT suffers disappointing end to Race 1 in Berlin
Lucas Di Grassi began the race from the back of the grid, determined to make up positions quickly. His initial laps were full of strategic manoeuvres, demonstrating his expertise in energy management and race pacing. The Brazilian driver carved through the field, seizing the lead at one point and showing why he remains one of Formula E’s most formidable competitors.
“We had a fantastic first part of the race today coming from the back to P1, with good energy following our strategy. However, we didn’t have the ultimate pace, especially in Attack Mode, and our pit stop was slow. That put us outside of the points unfortunately but we will keep fighting and giving 100% and I’m sure a good result will come.”
While a slow pit stop and limited pace in Attack Mode ultimately prevented him from scoring points, di Grassi’s performance underscored both his skill and the car’s potential under competitive pressure.
Preston highlights Maloney’s milestone performace at Berlin E-Prix
Meanwhile, Zane Maloney, now in his second year of Formula E, seized attention with a strong qualifying performance, blistering race start and consistent progress through the top ten. By Lap 7, he became the first Lola Yamaha ABT driver to lead a Formula E race, marking a milestone in his young career. The team’s early dominance, with Di Grassi and Maloney occupying P1 and P2 for several laps, showcased the car’s potential and the duo’s tactical proficiency.
Mark Preston, Team Principal of Lola Yamaha ABT, highlighted the significance of this performance, saying, “Zane making the duels for the first time is an excellent result for the team, and a true testament to the progress we’ve made. In the race, it was great to see Zane lead his first laps in Formula E and for the two Lola Yamaha ABT cars to be running together in P1 and P2 for a few laps. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to convert this to points but we will learn from today to build on this development when we race again tomorrow.”
Preston’s statement emphasised both achievement and perspective—while the team could not turn their early advantage into points, the performance is a clear indicator of development and future promise.
Lola Yamaha ABT tooking ahead to Sunday in Berlin
With valuable lessons learned from the current race, Lola Yamaha ABT is set to refine its strategies and optimise performance for the next round. The combination of experienced drivers like di Grassi and emerging talent in Zane gives the team a strong platform to achieve consistent points finishes. Fans can expect a more competitive showing as the season progresses.
