Mercedes, Venturi Formula E teams cleared to race in Diriyah

Mercedes and Venturi have been given the green light to take part in the second race at the Diriyah E-Prix following an FIA investigation.

The investigation was launched to determine what caused Edoardo Mortara’s big crash after a practice start at the end of practice on Saturday, which ultimately led to all four Mercedes-powered Formula E cars being barred from contesting qualifying.

Mortara was taken to hospital by ambulance following his heavy shunt with the TecPro barriers in Saudi Arabia, but has been declared fit to race after undergoing precautionary checks. 

Analysis into the accident found that Mortara’s crash had been caused by a rear-braking failsafe system failure after an initial front brake issue on his Venturi car.

All four cars have subsequently been cleared by the FIA to contest the second race in Saudi Arabia.

“First and most importantly, we are pleased that Edo is safe and well following his accident in FP3,” a Mercedes team statement read.

“Our analysis since then has enabled us to understand what occurred and put in place suitable counter measures.

“The braking system on Formula E cars is designed so that if the front brakes fail, the rear brake system is activated as a fail-safe.

“In this instance, an incorrect software parameter that meant the rear brake system didn't activate as intended and the fail-safe did not kick in.

“We have now corrected the software problem and demonstrated to the FIA’s satisfaction that the matter has been resolved.

“As a result, the FIA will permit all Mercedes-powered cars to race this evening.”

The second Diriyah E-Prix night race starts at 5pm UK time on Saturday.