The just concluded season of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship was a rollercoaster of excitement, high-speed racing and technological advances. This ninth season was characterised by 16 intense races with new generation Formula E Spark Gen3 cars, which brought more power and battery capacity to the fore.

Fundamental changes such as the open-wheel design, the entry of Williams as battery supplier and Hankook as rubber supplier reshaped the dynamics of the sport. The introduction of the ‘Attack Charge‘ mode and new qualifying added excitement and unpredictability to the races.

Jake Dennis: the new Formula E world champion

Jake Dennis, an example of consistency and grace under pressure, made history by becoming the first British Formula E world champion. After the Mexican triumph and several podiums during the season, his dominant performance in race two in Rome marked a significant step forward, gaining a 24-point lead in the championship standings. Arriving confidently at the London final, he showed remarkable concentration despite immense pressure from rivals such as Nick Cassidy, Mitch Evans and Pascal Wehrlein.

Dennis’ triumph in the Hankook London E-Prix Round 15, where he finished second in race one, sealed his victory and Andretti’s first Formula E title. The chaotic race, with Cassidy’s collision, Nato’s aggressive move, red flags and challenges, tested Dennis’ mettle. His victory was celebrated with applause from the home crowd, making the occasion memorable. On Sunday Dennis again had a positive race, finishing third and setting the fastest lap of the race, a sign that the previous day’s championship victory had by no means caused him to lose concentration.

Jake Dennis: from karting to Formula E world champion

Early years and rise through the ranks

Born in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, Jake Dennis began his motorsport career with karting championships, quickly excelling in single-seater racing. His successes included those in the InterSteps Championship and the Formula Renault Northern European Cup, where he demonstrated his formidable talent.

Recognition soon followed with the prestigious McLaren Autosport BRDC Award, which propelled him into the Formula Renault 2.0 Eurocup and the FIA Formula 3 European Championship. His CV includes numerous podiums and victories.

Success in multiple series

In 2016, Dennis made an impressive debut in the GP3 Series, finishing fourth overall with important wins at Monza and Sepang. In the following years, he participated in several championships such as the FIA World Endurance Championship and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. His versatility is evident in his participation in Formula 3, the Blancpain GT Series, the ADAC GT Masters and his impressive performances during the BMW Formula E team trials.

He joined Aston Martin for the DTM campaign and managed testing and development roles for Aston Martin Red Bull Racing in 2019 and 2020, before moving to the Red Bull Formula 1 team in the same role in the following years 2021, 2022 and 2023.

Formula E: a new challenge

Entering Formula E in the 2020/21 season, Dennis achieved an impressive third place overall as a rookie, with wins in Valencia and London. With high expectations for season 8, he started well and gained momentum with his home fans in London, scoring two podiums, including a win. He ended the season with another podium in Seoul and 2023 went down in history with a championship triumph and wins in Mexico and Italy.

The Andretti Formula E team’s journey

Andretti’s journey in Formula E has been a story of grit, determination and innovation. The team has been a part of Formula E since its inception and Dennis’ title represents his best result in the series.
The success of the team is a testament to the team’s collaboration, support and continued pursuit of excellence.

Andretti Autosport’s 2023 racing season was characterised by strategic decision-making and a deep understanding of the new technological dynamics of Formula E.
Their efforts paid off as Dennis became World Drivers’ Champion with one race to spare. The celebration of their first title marked a new chapter in the team’s legacy.

Future perspectives

With Dennis’ contract extension for 2023-24, Andretti Autosport’s future in Formula E looks promising.

Furthermore, after securing Cadillac’s support, Andretti is looking to find a place in Formula 1 and Dennis could be a prospect for one of the seats.

Conclusion

The crowning of Jake Dennis as the new Formula E world champion marks a milestone in a career full of versatility, determination and exceptional talent. His story from karting enthusiast to world champion is inspiring. Formula E has evolved into a compelling motorsport, pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology and sustainable racing. The integration of innovations such as Gen3 cars and ‘Attack Charge’ mode demonstrates the series’ commitment to improving both entertainment and technological advancement. The fierce competition between leading teams, including Andretti, Porsche, Maserati, Jaguar TCS Racing and Envision Racing, reflects the growth and promise of the sport.

The 2022-2023 season, with its intense competition, team dynamics and technological advancements, has set the stage for an exciting era in electric motorsport, and fans eagerly await the next electrifying chapters, which are expected to include the introduction of a ‘quick charge’ stop during the race in 2024.

A year to remember

The victory of Dennis, a relatively new face in Formula E, points to opportunities for emerging talent in this evolving sport. It paints an optimistic picture for the future, in which young drivers can aspire to make their mark. With growing interest and investment in electric vehicle technology, FE is a platform that not only entertains, but inspires and drives change towards a sustainable tomorrow.

Also, seeing a number 27 -who reminds me so much of the great Gilles Villeneuve– win a world championship gives me goosebumps, so viva Jake Dennis.

L'articolo Jake Dennis: who is the new Formula E World Champion? proviene da RTR Sports.