Experiencing Formula E With TAG Heuer
Watchonista enjoyed our first track day since 2019 at last weekend’s New York City E-Prix.
The last time Watchonista hit the racetrack was last fall when we ran our own NASCAR. Of course, due to a global pandemic, we couldn’t be physically present at the track. The last race we actually attended was the 2019 USGP with another LVMH Group brand, Hublot. So while the world has been slowly reawakening to a new normal, we’ve been yearning for a return to live events.
The New York City E-Prix
For Rounds 10 and 11 of the 2021 ABB FIA Formula E schedule, the full-electric series returned to its purpose-built track in Brooklyn, New York, for a doubleheader weekend. And like its role in IndyCar, TAG Heuer is the Official Timing Partner of the Formula E series.
In addition to the brand’s primary sponsorship and timing duties, TAG Heuer has also partnered with Porsche to form the TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E team. Of the 12 teams on the 2021 Formula E grid, TAG Heuer’s team is near the top of the standings, which is no small feat when all the cars are nearly identically matched.
Thanks to our friends at TAG Heuer, Watchonista was granted an all-access pass. While the race weekend festivities were reduced due to capacity and COVID restrictions, it was a relief to be at the track again!
The Experience
Similar to Formula 1, Formula E organizers pulled out all the stops when it comes to hospitality. The epicenter of the race day activities was at the BOSS EMOTION Club. In this racing fan’s mind, the last time I saw Hugo Boss at a racetrack was when the brand sponsored Ayrton Senna’s McLaren.
On the wrist for the weekend was the TAG Heuer Carrera 160 Years Silver Limited Edition. The watch lent mechanical excellence to a weekend dominated by electrical and sustainability pursuits. Thanks to Porsche, Watchonista ran hot laps in the new Taycan Turbo-electric, which safety driver Bruno Correia drove to the absolute limit.
In terms of on-track performance, Race 10 on Saturday was one to forget for TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E with André Lotterer finishing P8 and Pascal Wehrlein finishing last. However, the team rebounded for Sunday’s Race 11 and finished a respectable P4 and P5, just shy of a podium finish.
Photo Gallery
Please enjoy this selection of our favorite moments from the 2021 ABB FIA Formula E New York City E-Prix.
(Photography by Liam O'Donnell)