Jake Dennis Sets the Pace in Jeddah Free Practice Ahead of Qualifying
The final free practice session for the 2026 Jeddah E-Prix saw Jake Dennis of Andretti emerge as the fastest driver, offering a significant morale boost after a challenging race on Thursday. This performance sets the stage for a competitive qualifying session scheduled for 15:40 local time (12:40 UTC) today.
Dennis Leads Competitive Field
Dennis wasn’t alone at the top, with a tightly packed leaderboard showcasing the intensity of the Formula E championship. Mitch Evans (Jaguar TCS Racing) secured second place, capitalizing on his podium finish in the previous race. Dan Ticktum of CUPRA KIRO rounded out the top three, followed closely by yesterday’s pole-sitter, Edoardo Mortara (Mahindra Racing), and Maximilian Guenther (DS PENSKE) in fifth.
Challenging Session for Nyck de Vries
The session wasn’t without its difficulties. Nyck de Vries faced early setbacks with his Mahindra Racing car, unable to leave the garage at the start of practice. The Season 7 World Champion, who did not start Thursday’s race due to a grid issue, will also be burdened with a 60-place grid penalty resulting from component changes – specifically, exceeding the allowed limit of MGUs and requiring a new MCU. Despite the initial problems, de Vries eventually managed to complete the session, finishing in 15th position.
Late Session Drama and Final Results
The competitive landscape shifted as the session progressed. Mortara initially set the fastest time with 17 minutes remaining, but his lead was quickly challenged and surpassed by Evans, Guenther, and ultimately Dennis. A late-lap incident involving Antonio Felix da Costa and Jean-Eric Vergne nearly resulted in contact, as Vergne slowed on the racing line, momentarily obstructing da Costa’s final attempt at a faster time.
Ultimately, Dennis’s lap time remained unchallenged as the checkered flag waved. He finished ahead of Evans and Ticktum, establishing himself as a frontrunner heading into qualifying.
2026 Jeddah E-Prix Schedule
The Jeddah Corniche Circuit continues to be a key location for Formula E, having hosted races since Season 5. This weekend’s double-header promises thrilling action, including the return of the PIT BOOST feature. Here’s the schedule:
- Qualifying: Saturday, February 14, 15:40 local / 12:40 UTC
- Race: Saturday, February 15, 20:05 local / 17:05 UTC
Fans can find the full schedule in their local time zone and check broadcaster listings for viewing options [here](link to schedule).
Formula E’s Evo Sessions Return
Adding to the excitement, Formula E’s Evo Sessions are back, featuring the world’s top creators and the cutting-edge GEN3 Evo race car. The spectacle will be streamed live on YouTube on February 15.
Stay Connected with the Action
Fans can follow the race live on the web and through the official Formula E app, accessing real-time timing, interactive track maps, driver tracking, highlights, and exclusive content. Live coverage and reaction can be found at fiaformulae.com/live.
Formula E’s social media channels, website, and app will also provide session reports, interviews, and behind-the-scenes insights throughout the five-day event.
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Fans can also explore additional content, including the new season of ‘Driver’ on Amazon Prime, the full 2025/26 race calendar, and options to download the Formula E app for iOS or Android. Tickets and hospitality packages are also available.
