Oliver Rowland recalls his biggest career risk: "I remember not sleeping for two–three weeks'
Things weren't always well-planned for Oliver Rowland, who has just clinched the Formula E World Championship. The 32-year-old Nissan driver took major risks throughout his career, including walking away from a team without another offer in hand.
He describes that time as one of the toughest periods of his life. But Rowland eventually bounced back, joining a new team and going on to win the championship this season.
Oliver Rowland's journey in
Formula E
was full of ups and downs
Oliver Rowland made his one-race debut in Formula E with Mahindra Racing at the 2015 Punta del Este ePrix, replacing the injured Nick Heidfeld. He quickly disappeared from the scene afterward.
Reflecting on that strange start in Formula E's second season, Rowland told Formula E's official website, 'If you go back to Punta del Este, I remember having no idea about anything when I arrived and leaving thinking, 'I'm not sure I want to do that again, because it was pretty tough.''
He eventually returned as a full-time Formula E driver with Nissan e.dams in 2018. After delivering notable performances over a few seasons, he switched to Mahindra Racing in 2021. However, midway through the 2023 season, Rowland made another bold move — quitting the team without a confirmed offer elsewhere. Nissan brought him back the following season, leading to two remarkable years that culminated in him winning the Season 11 championship.
Speaking about his decision to leave Mahindra Racing in 2023 after two seasons, Rowland said, 'I took a huge risk for my career and for my family because my contract is what keeps us all fed and watered, so walking away from that was a really, really tough period in my life. I remember not sleeping for like, two, three weeks at some point. To kind of write the story and come out on the other side with the team that I started in Formula E with is just perfect.
'
He added, 'As a racing driver, a lot of days are bad, and you have to keep believing in yourself — that you're capable of doing it. Going into this year, I was confident that we would have a good chance.'
Oliver Rowland shares his happiness on Formula E championship win
Now, Oliver Rowland has become the Formula E World Champion in just his second year back with Nissan. 'The moment I arrived in the championship and looked at the caliber of drivers here and the previous World Champions, it's such a good achievement for me to become World Champion. To be part of that is incredible,' he said.
Also Read:
Oliver Rowland's rise to champion: Rare childhood moments highlighted in touching video
Rowland will now race in front of his home crowd in London, where he'll lift the World Championship trophy. Since he won in London last year, another win or a podium finish would be the icing on the cake.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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