At the launch of the 11th Formula E season in São Paulo, reigning champion Pascal Wehrlein caused concern in the 30th minute of the race: he had a collision with Jaguar driver Nick Cassidy, leading to a rollover. of his vehicle. Wehrlein's Porsche crashed into the safety wall, ending up upside down on the track.
Initial concerns about the German driver's safety were considerable, and the race was stopped for a few moments while he was removed from his car. Fortunately, the first good news arrived: the Porsche driver is doing well, considering the circumstances, and was taken to hospital for examinations after the event.
For the first time since the accident, the Formula E driver speaks to discuss his perceptions of the race, what particularly helped him overcome this event, as well as the goals he has set for himself for the race weekend which will take place in Mexico on January 11.
Question : Mr Wehrlein, how do you feel after the race?
Pascal Wehrlein: I have a few bruises, but I'm okay, considering the circumstances. I returned home to my family in Switzerland and am resting.
Question : What was the atmosphere like for you and your team in Brazil?
Wehrlein: Quite positive, indeed. We were well prepared and our pace was good, which influenced the atmosphere within the team. In addition, Brazilians are passionate about motorsport. Everything came together for a great race.
Question : You started from pole position; what were your expectations?
Wehrlein: The objective was clearly to win the race and, under normal conditions, we had a good chance. However, it would have proved difficult, especially with the first red flag which did not help us much.
Question : How did your race go before the accident?
Wehrlein: Everything was going well until the first interruption, and it continued to be okay overall. However, our strategy was designed for a race without a red flag, so it was a bit unlucky for us. That said, the fact that António finished second shows the strength of our team.
Question : How did the dangerous situation in the 30th minute happen?
Wehrlein: It all started at turn 4, where we were side by side. I was on the inside of Turn 5, tied with Nick Cassidy, while Max Günther was to his right. We hit, but I managed to force my way inside. The collision between Nick and Max caused a problem with the suspension of his Jaguar. On the next bend, Nick could no longer steer his vehicle properly, leading to the accident.
Question : Can you describe your feelings during the accident and in the minutes that followed?
Wehrlein: My first worry was that another car would hit me from behind. This is why the red flag was so important at that time. In this type of incident, another vehicle may collide with the one in the accident. Normally this goes well, but in this situation I was upside down, which was much more dangerous. Once the flag waved, I just wanted to get out as quickly as possible. A fire, for example, would have been dramatic. So I needed help immediately.
Question : You were taken to the hospital after the accident. Were you able to speak to your family?
Wehrlein: I was able to call my family from the on-site medical center. I reassured them, which also did me good. Subsequently, I was transferred to the hospital for further examination.
Question : Nick Cassidy was very concerned and radioed his concerns. Were you able to talk with him?
Wehrlein: Many pilots were concerned and immediately got in touch, not just Nick. This shows that we have good relations in Formula E. I received many well wishes from my colleagues after the race.
Question : What do you remember about the start of the season for the next Grand Prix in Mexico? What are your goals?
Wehrlein: Three points for pole position, lots of data to analyze and some pain. My goal now is to get well and spend time with family, which is beneficial for me. In Mexico, I want to find my form like in São Paulo.
The interview was carried out for the Sports Competence Center (WELT, SPORT BILD, BILD) and first published on SPORT PICTURE.
