Vergne holds off Evans to win chaotic Swiss E-Prix
Jean-Eric Vergne inched closer to his second Formula E title on Saturday, the Techeetah driver securing his third win of the 2018-19 season following a hectic Swiss E-Prix in Bern.
On his way to the podium, Vergne overcame a massive first-lap pile-up, a tense battle with Jaguar's Mitch Evans and a spot of rain, all of which wreaked havoc on many drivers' race.
The field had just launched its late afternoon of racing on the streets of Bern when Mahindra's Pascal Wehrlein was sent into the barriers by Nissan e.dams' Sebastien Buemi, a clash that caused an immediate congestion that blocked the track for half of the runners.
Thereafter, Jerome d'Ambrosio made contact with Virgin Racing's Robin Frijns, sending the Dutchman into the barriers, wiping out his race and Frijns' championship hopes.
A lengthy red flag period followed the commotion, sparking a debate between the teams and the organisers about the order in which the race should be re-started.
Eventually, everyone lined up in their original positions behind the Safety Car, with Vergne holding his own at the front once again but with Evans in hot pursuit.
A late rain shower only added to the difficulties but ultimately Vergne kept his composure to prevail from Evans and Buemi.
The Frenchman extended his lead in the title fight over Techeetah teammate André Lotterer to 32 points three weeks from the final round of the 2018-19 FE season scheduled in New York on July 13.
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