Oliver Rowland Talks Epic Nissan Comeback in Formula E’s 10th Season, Closing in Just 14 Points on the Leader
As the electrifying action of Formula E’s 10th season unfolds, Nissan is asserting its dominance on the track with a powerful presence. Oliver Rowland’s return to Nissan after bidding adieu to Mahindra has been nothing short of extraordinary. His recent victory at the Misano E-Prix serves as a testament to his remarkable prowess behind the wheel, positioning him as a formidable contender in the hunt for the Formula E season 10 title, with just a mere 14 points separating him from the series leader.
In an exclusive interview, Rowland provides insights into Nissan’s aspirations, the competitive landscape of the championship, and his seamless integration into the Japanese team.
When queried about the distinctive culture within the Nissan team, Rowland highlights the youthful energy that permeates the squad. With an average age aligning closely with his own, there exists a palpable camaraderie that fuels their collective drive for success. Rowland reminisces fondly about his time spent with the team in previous seasons, emphasizing the hard-work mentality that resonates among its members. This shared ethos instills a sense of confidence in Rowland, enabling him to focus unwaveringly on his role as a driver.
Navigating the intense pressure and sky-high expectations inherent in Formula E requires a strategic approach. Rowland’s method involves maintaining a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos, eschewing forced maneuvers that could disrupt his rhythm. Central to his coping mechanism is the imperative of remaining composed, coupled with judicious rest periods during the frenetic race schedule. For Rowland, performing under pressure is not merely a task; it’s a skill honed over years of relentless dedication to his craft.
With the Formula E calendar expanding to encompass new territories, including the recent addition of Japan, Rowland expresses optimism regarding the championship’s growth trajectory. Despite the challenges posed by dual racing commitments, Rowland eagerly embraces the opportunity to compete in diverse locales, viewing it as a catalyst for the championship’s expansion on a global scale.
Reflecting on his success at the inaugural Tokyo race, Rowland acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding his performance in upcoming races like Shanghai. While he remains cautiously optimistic about his prospects, Rowland acknowledges the unique challenges posed by each circuit, underscoring the need for adaptability and strategic finesse to secure another podium finish.
Looking ahead to the GEN4 era of Formula E, Rowland exudes excitement at the prospect of faster cars endowed with enhanced grip, promising a riveting evolution in racing dynamics. He advocates for regulations designed to mitigate the slipstream effect and alleviate the prevalence of peloton-style racing, envisioning a future marked by heightened performance and potentially elongated races.
