P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Wehrlein questions value of qualifying for "weird" peloton-style Formula E racing
The inaugural Formula E race at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli was quite anticipated to be chaotic due to its long straights and high-speed corners, giving drivers the opportunity to slip back into the pack and save energy in the slipstream. The race saw a total of eight drivers leading at various intervals throughout the 28-lap event, resulting in 19 overall lead changes. Pascal Wehrlein, the championship leader, faced challenges during the race, finishing 17th after needing to pit for a new front wing following contact with Jean-Eric Vergne. Team-mate Antonio Felix da Costa claimed victory from 14th place, while reigning champion Jake Dennis finished third from 17th on the grid. Wehrlein voiced his concerns about the necessity of qualifying in such unpredictable races, stating that the energy targets are set too low in the beginning. The unique racing style was also criticized by other drivers, such as Oliver Rowland, who suggested that the early stages of the race felt more like positioning rather than genuine racing.
