Günther: Tokyo masterclass 'feels so special'

Maximilian Günther described his stunning Tokyo E-Prix victory as "special", with the German having thrown himself right into title contention.

The Maserati driver missed out on pole position earlier on Saturday in the Japanese capital by just 0.021s, following a thrilling final duel against Oliver Rowland.

In the race, Günther spent the start of it in third behind Rowland and Edoardo Mortara, before working his way to the front in the latter stages.

After becoming the first Formula E driver to win in Japan, the German driver finds himself fifth in the drivers' championship and just 15 points off the top spot.

“An incredible weekend," said Günther. "We were in the top three in every session and almost got pole position, but securing the win feels so special – everybody did an amazing job.

"I felt great in the car, and we’ve taken some good steps as a team in the last few weeks. Since São Paulo, I think we’ve shown that we have really strong pace and today, we converted it into a win."

Everything judged 'perfectly'

The key to Günther's brilliant victory was the timing of his attack modes. Whilst most drivers activated theirs in the opening stages, the 26-year-old waited until the middle of the race.

This worked a treat, as it allowed him to manage his energy in the opening laps, before pushing in the closing stages to build a big enough advantage to take his attack mode and remain in the lead.

"There was a lot of energy management in the race, but we covered ourselves well, perfectly executed the strategy, and the moves, and did everything we had to do," added the German.

"It’s amazing to win Formula E’s first-ever race in Tokyo, and I’m proud. We need to enjoy this moment.”