As Formula E prepares for its prestigious Monaco E-Prix double-header this weekend, Andretti driver Nico Müller reflects on his impressive Miami performance and sets his sights on potential podium glory in the Principality.
After a remarkable climb from P17 to P9 in Miami, including briefly leading the race on lap 15, Swiss driver Müller is demonstrating that his transition to the Andretti team for the 2024-25 season is beginning to bear fruit. Speaking exclusively to Fastest Formula News ahead of the Monaco E-Prix, Müller shared insights into his adaptation process and what fans might expect this weekend.
Momentum in Miami E-Prix
Müller’s performance in Miami highlighted not just his driving ability but also the growing synergy between driver and team. “We’ve generally gelled quite well in terms of how we pass information back and forth during the race to take the right decisions strategically, which has become more and more key in these sorts of races,” Müller explained.
The Swiss driver acknowledged that while they have made mistakes this season, Miami represented a significant step forward. “In Miami, we executed very well and took the right conclusions out of the information we had,” he noted. “We had decent pace in the race, good efficiency, and that was the key for a good result.”
That combination of strategy, efficiency, and what Müller candidly admits included “a little bit of luck” – often essential in Formula E’s unpredictable environment – culminated in a points finish that has boosted confidence heading into Monaco.
Adapting to Andretti
When asked about his adaptation to the team, Müller was quick to highlight Andretti’s pedigree in the all-electric series. “You can clearly see that this team has earned success in Formula E. And you realise quickly why they’re one of the top ones,” he remarked.
What has impressed Müller most is the holistic approach Andretti takes to race preparation. “To point out specific factors is pretty difficult because it’s the combination of the little things that make the difference in the end,” he said. “They are very sophisticated in their preparation.”
Particularly notable is how Andretti has navigated the Gen 3 era of Formula E. “They have been already, a couple of years back, one of the teams that have quickly understood the dynamic of these races since we’ve changed to the Gen 3 car. And I still feel effects of that,” Müller observed, adding that Andretti had been “ahead” of other teams in this respect.
Managing the chaos in Formula E
Formula E’s reputation for chaotic race conclusions was evident in Miami, which ended with a frantic four-lap sprint. For drivers in points-scoring positions like Müller, these situations require particular focus.
“We’ve been through similar situations before, so we kind of know how to approach these,” he explained. “The team plays a big role in that. They keep you in the loop. They give you the information you need to be preparing for the last sprint.”
Müller acknowledged the adrenaline surge that comes with these restart scenarios but emphasized the importance of preparation during the extended break. “That’s not to be underestimated, but still, I think we managed to prepare well for it because there was obviously 10, 15 minutes of a break and then execute what we had.”
Is a podium in the cards for Müller?
Looking ahead to this weekend’s prestigious double-header in Monaco, Müller maintains cautious optimism about his chances.
“I think it [a podium] always is in Formula E, you never know,” he said, acknowledging the inherent unpredictability of the series. With two races scheduled in Monaco this year, Müller sees “double the chance” but also recognizes the distinct challenges each day will present.
“Two very different races… completely different factors that make the difference on Saturday versus Sunday,” he explained. “We’ve prepared well for both occasions. We know the weaknesses that we are working on in order to be in even better shape.”
Müller’s confidence is measured but unmistakable. “I’m confident that we can score good points twice. And if we nail it, why not stand on the podium? That’s definitely always the goal.”
