Get ready to be amazed by the thrilling world of Formula E, where strategy, patience, and sheer skill collide! But here's where it gets controversial: Is Nick Cassidy's energy-saving approach a stroke of genius or a risky gamble? Let's dive into the electrifying story of how Cassidy and his race engineer, Pierre Paul Frey, clinched the ABB Engineered To Outrun Award in São Paulo, leaving fans and critics alike buzzing with excitement.
On December 12, 2025, the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship kicked off its 2025/2026 season with a bang, and Nick Cassidy wasted no time reminding everyone why he’s considered one of the sport’s most fearless overtakers. Starting from a modest 15th on the grid, Cassidy delivered a masterclass in precision driving, securing a podium finish for Citroën Racing in their Formula E debut. And this is the part most people miss: It wasn’t just about speed; it was about strategy—a calculated dance of energy management and timing that set Cassidy apart.
Citroën’s faith in Cassidy was well-placed. While his teammate, Jean-Eric Vergne, qualified third, Cassidy’s 15th-place start didn’t reflect the true potential of the Citroën package. From the get-go, Cassidy played the long game, opting for discipline over early heroics. During the first half of the race, he prioritized energy conservation, maintaining a top speed below 230 km/h—a stark contrast to the 250 km/h possible with ATTACK MODE. This wasn’t about flashy moves; it was about building a foundation for a late-race surge.
Here’s the bold truth: Cassidy’s approach was unglamorous but brilliant. By saving tiny fractions of battery—0.1% or 0.2% at a time—he accumulated a significant advantage over 10-15 laps. While rivals spent energy early, Cassidy bided his time, ending up with around 3% more energy than the median. The question wasn’t if he’d strike, but when. And strike he did, just after the halfway mark.
Between laps 16 and 22, Cassidy unleashed his ATTACK MODE, slicing through the field with surgical precision. He rocketed from 14th to 2nd in mere laps, timing his final move with seconds to spare on his ATTACK MODE. It was a display of tactical brilliance—until an untimely safety car neutralized his second ATTACK MODE, allowing Jake Dennis to slip past in the closing stages. Still, Cassidy’s third-place finish was a triumph, even if it left fans wondering, What if?
Now, let’s spark some debate: Was Cassidy’s strategy too conservative, or was it the perfect blend of risk and reward? Did the safety car rob him of a potential win, or did it highlight the unpredictability that makes Formula E so captivating? Share your thoughts in the comments—we want to hear from you!
As Citroën Racing continues to make history in the Formula E World Championship, one thing is clear: Cassidy’s performance in São Paulo was more than just a race; it was a lesson in patience, precision, and the art of outrunning the competition. Don’t miss out on the action—grab your tickets, download the app, and join the electric revolution!
