Ahead of the Formula E London E-Prix, CUPRA KIRO driver David Beckmann spoke exclusively to Pit Debrief. The German rookie opened up how he prepared after a disappointing Berlin E-Prix, and how his future may look.
Beckmann is optimistic for the Formula E London E-Prix after unlucky Berlin E-Prix
Beckmann reflected on the challenges the team faced during the Berlin E-Prix, noting that the first race was particularly disappointing due to contact issues. Despite their efforts, the second race’s strategy didn’t quite come together as hoped. However, with the London E-Prix approaching, Beckmann expressed optimism and determination, highlighting the significance of it being a home event for the team.
He emphasized the motivation that comes from having many guests, including engineers and mechanics, present to support them. Beckmann concluded by stating the team’s goal to finish the season on a high note with a strong performance in London.
“Yes, basically the same as always. There was simulator preparation, a lot of work with the team, lots of meetings. Berlin was a bit of a shame, especially the first race, which of course had been a bit of a problem for us due to the contact. In the second race, we simply weren’t able to bring the strategy to an optimum conclusion together.”
“But now London is the last race, let’s try to get another good result. It’s also a home race for the team, so it’s relatively nice that there are a lot of guests from the guys, the engineers and mechanics. And then we want to show once again that the season will end on a high.”
Qualifying in the top 10 at the London E-Prix would be “ideally” for Beckmann
Beckmann explained to Pit Debrief that the main focus for the Formula E London E-Prix is to deliver a strong qualifying performance, as starting position is especially important on a track where overtaking is very challenging. He mentioned that ideally, the team aims to secure a spot within the top 10 and then concentrate on defending that position throughout the race. Beckmann also acknowledged that while they’ve had opportunities to score points recently, a streak of bad luck has held them back. He remains optimistic, though, believing that as long as the team avoids any incidents on track, collecting points should be within reach.
“Yes, the goal would simply be to have a good qualifying, because qualifying is relatively important here, because overtaking is simply very difficult on the track. And yes, ideally qualifying in the top 10, qualifying and then simply defending well and then holding your position in the race.”
“Yes, we’ve actually often had the chance recently, but it’s always been a bit of a run of bad luck. So, as long as no one crashes into us or anything like that, it should actually be possible to collect points.”
“It’s a shame” for Beckmann that there will be only 20 drivers on the grid after McLaren leaves Formula E after the London E-Prix
Currently, Beckmann is concentrating solely on navigating the upcoming London E-Prix, leaving future considerations to the management team. He said he isn’t in a position to comment on what lies ahead just yet. Beckmann also expressed regret over McLaren’s departure from the championship, acknowledging that while drivers such as Barnard, who has had a strong season, will likely secure seats, it’s disappointing that the field will be reduced to only 20 drivers next year.
“I’m not thinking about that at the moment, the management is doing that in the background, I’m just trying to get through the race weekend and then we’ll see what’s possible. But I can’t comment on that at the moment.”
“It’s a shame that McLaren is now gone. Of course, the drivers have to find a place somehow, as long as Barnard does, because he’s had a good season, but it’s a shame that we’ll only have 20 drivers next year.”
A future at Porsche could be possible for the german driver
The German shared that he remains with Porsche as a development and reserve driver for the works team. He mentioned that there will be discussions with Porsche in the coming weeks to explore potential opportunities, emphasizing that he’s open to various options. Reflecting on his past experience, Beckmann recalled driving in the LMP2 class at Sebring, where he enjoyed success with a win, which was a highlight for him.
Looking ahead, he acknowledged that breaking into endurance GT3 racing can be challenging since most teams are customer outfits, and securing a spot in LMDH works teams is also difficult due to fixed driver line-ups. Despite these challenges, he remains hopeful and ready to see what opportunities might arise.
“I’m still with Porsche, also a development driver for the works team and reserve driver, and I’m sure we’ll have a few talks with Porsche in the next few weeks and then we’ll see what’s possible. Basically, I’m open to anything. I’ve already driven Sebring in the LMP2 back then, which was quite good and we were able to win it. So that was obviously a lot of fun for me, but otherwise we’ll have to look at endurance racing.”
“Endurance GT3 is not so easy because they are all customer teams. And it’s not so easy to get into the works teams in LMDH either, because the whole driver line-up is now fixed. But let’s see what’s possible.”
