Imagine the thrill of scoring your first points in Formula E, only to have them handed to you because of a penalty on another driver. That’s exactly what happened to Zane Maloney in the 2025 Google Cloud São Paulo E-Prix, but the story behind it is even more gripping than it sounds.
In a race that kicked off the season with electrifying drama, Andretti’s Felipe Drugovich seemed poised to celebrate a fifth-place finish in front of his home crowd. The Brazilian driver had skillfully navigated the chaos of the season-opener, strategically using ATTACK MODE late in the race to secure a top-six spot for his team. But here’s where it gets controversial: after the checkered flag waved, stewards penalized Drugovich for overtaking under a Full Course Yellow, specifically for passing Citroen’s Nick Cassidy. The five-second penalty dropped him to 12th place, stripping him of those hard-earned points.
And this is the part most people miss: While Drugovich’s penalty was a setback, it opened the door for Lola Yamaha ABT’s Zane Maloney to claim his maiden points in Formula E, finishing 10th overall. This twist of fate highlights the razor-thin margins and high stakes in the world’s premier electric racing series.
But let’s pause for a moment—was Drugovich’s penalty fair? Some fans argue that overtaking under Full Course Yellow conditions is a clear violation, while others believe the punishment was too harsh for a driver making his full debut. What do you think? Should the rules be stricter, or is there room for leniency in such high-pressure situations? Let us know in the comments below.
For those eager to dive deeper into the action, don’t miss the brand-new season of Driver on Amazon Prime, where you can experience the behind-the-scenes intensity of Formula E. And if you’re planning to catch the races live, check out the 2025/26 Formula E calendar, download the official app, or secure your grandstand tickets now. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer, this season promises more twists, turns, and debates than ever before. What’s your take on Drugovich’s penalty? Fair call or too severe?
