How the Bookies See it
- Race Winner: Buemi 2/1, Vergne 9/2, di Grassi 11/2, Bird 15/2 - Sky Bet
Form
It had been looking as if reigning champion, Sebastien Buemi, was going to romp to a consecutive Formula E title, but his record breaking run of wins came to a dramatic end last time out in Mexico. The Swiss driver may still head the standings but the gap has been closed to just five points by championship rival Lucas di Grassi, who will be brimming with confidence after his inspirational win from 15th on the grid.
Buemi had a torrid race, finishing in a no-points scoring 13th place. However, he kept his record of scoring in every race since Long Beach in season one by gaining the point for fastest lap, which could prove crucial. One point was the winning margin in 2015 when Nelson Piquet Jr took the inaugural title from Buemi.
Nico Prost may have had a better race than his teammate, but Jean-Eric Vergne’s second place means that he has closed the gap on his compatriot in the battle for third in the championship.
Sam Bird had a solid third place finish in Mexico. But the British driver has only scored points in 50% of the races and is showing that it is not enough to be quick if you want to mount a serious championship challenge.
Two drivers not to risk betting on are DS Virgin Racing’s Jose Maria Lopez and Robin Frijns of the Andretti Formula E team. Both drivers are carrying injuries, which may prevent them racing. Reserve drivers Alex Lynn and Alexander Sims will both be on standby in Monaco.
Sports.net’s view
Qualifying is critical in Monaco. Oliver Turvey took his first Formula E pole in Mexico City but had to retire with powertrain issues. Buemi took pole and race win the last time the championship race was held in Monaco (2015) and will be keen to show that Mexico was just a hiccup. Di Grassi will be full of confidence and Vergne knows that his TECHEETAH is capable of race wins, but Sam Bird has form in Monaco, having won there in other championships, and has the momentum from finishing third last time out.
- Sports.net's Top Tip: Sam Bird to win (bet each way) at 15/2 with Sky Bet