RIYADH: Belgian driver Stoffel Vandoorne believes a strong qualifying session is essential for success at the 2024 Diriyah E-Prix, the flagship ABB FIA Formula E World Championship event, which will see a doubleheader of night races on Friday and Saturday.

Having seen the circuit firsthand while finalizing his preparations for Riyadh’s biggest motorsport event of the year, the 31-year-old DS Penske driver said: “The Diriyah E-Prix is always a very dynamic race and as drivers, we have to be on the very top of our game. You never quite know what will be possible in terms of overtaking — conditions can always change and this is only the second race weekend of the year, so everyone’s finding their feet. We’ll see what happens, but qualifying will be very important, for sure.”

The 2021/2022 champion added: “Energy management is essential for the Diriyah E-Prix. Obviously, the track has the same layout and we’re used to it — but it has been resurfaced in places and this will affect our grip out there a little. The current dust also makes for a tricky weekend and temperatures are changing a lot. There are lots of factors in play, and this makes qualification even more important. Execution out there is a must and that’s what the team and I are focused on.”

The starting grid for round two will be decided on Friday afternoon — hours before the first race begins. While a favorable position on the grid is a priority for Vandoorne, returning to Saudi Arabia also means racing on a track where he loves to compete.

After a top-eight finish at the season 10 opener in Mexico City two weeks ago, he said he feels “very good” heading into the weekend and aims to keep improving with the whole season ahead.

Vandoorne also spoke about the Diriyah E-Prix from a fan perspective, as well as the event’s evolution since its debut in 2018.

“Night races are always special,” he said. “Everything just looks a little bit cooler and the racing action looks more fun for fans — especially those watching live from the venue. The Diriyah E-Prix has grown so much in the last few years. It’s not just the races here — it’s the fan village and the concerts too. The fans really appreciate the live entertainment alongside the races. For me, it’s great to be here and involved in a city and a country that’s developing through motorsport.”