Oliver Rowland will team up with Mahindra Racing's new driver Lucas Di Grassi to give opponents a tough tim Mahindra Racing

Mahindra Racing Driver's Blog | Oliver Rowland

Oliver Rowland shares his preview of the 2023 ABB FIA Formula E season and its first race, the Mexico E-Prix

Season 9 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship is finally almost upon us, and I can’t wait to start my second season with Mahindra Racing.

Heading into the opening round in Mexico City, it’s a unique time for the team as we enter the brand new Gen3 era of Formula E, with new cars and a new set of rules for us to get used to. We also have our new CEO, Fred Bertrand, joining the team. Fred was at our pre-season test in Valencia back in December and it was refreshing to hear his visions and ambitions for the team as we prepare for Season 9.

Looking back on our test in Valencia, we are feeling quietly positive heading into the opening race. We covered a lot of mileage but also encountered some issues, which we resolved together as a team. I was pleased with my pace in the car too. I was regularly at the top of the timing sheets, finishing fifth overall at the end of the test week. The new Gen3 car is very different to the previous Gen2 car so it will be interesting to see how it performs.

I’m looking forward to Mexico. It’s a track I know and enjoy, and the Mexican fans are always amazing. It will be warm, certainly warmer than it is in the UK at the moment, so we will have that to contend with as drivers, but we have raced in warm climates before, so it won’t be an issue. Reliability will be key, with it being the first time we are all our racing the new Gen3 car in anger. We are aiming for a clean weekend to bring back a good haul of points for the team.

For Season 9, Mahindra also welcomes former Formula E Champion, Lucas Di Grassi to the team. I’m enjoying working with Lucas. He has a lot of experience and skills to bring to the team, so I have the chance to learn from him, but at the same time, I can also pass along my knowledge and experience of how the team works to him too. I think we will be a great pairing heading into the upcoming season.

Keep an eye on the Mahindra Racing social channels to follow our performance over the weekend and to see exclusive behind the scenes content.

Formula E