Seven Entries Confirmed for Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY

Photo: Jaguar

Jaguar has revealed the first seven entries for the second season of its Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY series, as well as a calendar change to include a race in Sanya.

Reigning champion Sergio Jimenez will return to defend his I-PACE eTROPHY title during the 2019-20 season, which will get underway at Ad Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, on Nov. 22-23.

Jimenez will be joined by Caca Bueno in an unchanged lineup for Jaguar Brazil Racing, while addition two-car entries have been confirmed by the series’ Saudi and Chinese teams.

“I am very happy to be back for season two along with Caca,” said Jimenez. “We worked well together last season and we want to continue that success for the team.

“The changes to the car and of course Attack Mode will mean the races are much more exciting and I can’t wait for the season to start.”

A new pairing of Fahad Algosaibi and Mashhur Bal Hejaila will drive for Saudi Racing. Algosaibi has competed in six seasons of Porsche GT3 Challenge Middle East, wile Bal Hejaila raced in Formula Gulf 1000 for two seasons.

Yaqi Zhang returns for a second campaign with Team China Racing, but will be joined by debutant Sun Chao.

The seventh and final driver confirmed at this stage is Alice Powell, who drove the Jaguar VIP car in Ad Diriyah last year and has since finished third in the W Series standings.

“I really enjoyed my first experience of electric racing in Saudi Arabia last year and it’s great to be back,” she said.

“I followed the first season from afar after my cameo, but I’m now here to win!”

Additional entries are expected to be communicated prior to the season opener in three weeks’ time.

“I would like to warmly welcome all the drivers – both returning and new – to the Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY,” commented the championship’s new series manager, Mark Turner.

“Following a successful testing event in Bedford this week, we are confident that this grid lineup will provide exciting racing and a challenge for podium finishes.

“As we approach the start of Season Two, these drivers’ skills and expertise are an asset to the series. I am sure these drivers will perform brilliantly throughout the season and I wish them the best of luck.”

A round in Sanya on March 21 has been added to the 2019-20 schedule as a replacement for the canceled Hong Kong race.

Jake Kilshaw

Jake Kilshaw is a UK-based journalist. He is a graduate of Politics and International Relations.