Berlin E-Prix: All the free practice action that unfolded on Friday

Written by Anna Knaak, Edited by Vyas Ponnuri

Formula E returned to familiar territory today as the championship headed to Berlin for Races 13 and 14 of the 2025 season. The German capital remains the only city to have hosted a race in every season of Formula E. 

Pascal Wehrlein topped FP1 on home turf on Friday | Credit: Anna Knaak

With just four races remaining in this season and 116 points still up for grabs, tensions are high and the title fight is heating up.

The 2.345 km, 15-turn layout at Tempelhof is known for its abrasive concrete surface, which places unique demands on both tire and energy management. Being the home race for several teams and drivers, such as current Champion Pascal Wehrlein, emotions are running high.

In Free Practice 1 (FP1) current champion Pascal Wehrlein claimed P1 at his home event, a crucial result in what could be a defining weekend for his title hopes. Wehrlein is one of 11 drivers still technically in contention for the championship, though current standings leader Oliver Rowland holds a commanding 69-point advantage over him. But Wehrlein’s pace suggests he isn’t giving up the fight.

Drama struck late in the session when Tag Heuer Porsche teammates Pascal Wehrlein and António Félix da Costa collided, ending FP1 under a red flag. Da Costa made heavy contact with the wall, raising concerns about damage ahead of qualifying and tomorrow’s race.

Championship leader Rowland showed consistent form with a P4 finish in practice, signalling that he remains very much in control of the title race. If results are in his favor, the championship could be decided as early as tomorrow.

There was also a notable debut in the paddock today. Felipe Drugovich, a standout from Formula 2, made his Formula E debut, stepping in for Nyck de Vries.

Lola Yamaha ABT showed up to Berlin with a superman-themed livery | Credit: Anna Knaak

Off the track, the Lola Yamaha ABT team caught everyone’s eye with a special livery: a Superman-themed car revealed just before the session. Both drivers appeared in matching Superman race suits with red capes, putting a smile on everyone’s face.

Meanwhile, António Félix da Costa paid a moving tribute to recently deceased Portuguese footballers Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, honoring them with an inscription on his halo:

“a correr pelo Diogo Jota e André Silva” — “racing for Diogo Jota and André Silva.”

As the paddock prepares for qualifying and Race 13 tomorrow, all eyes are on Rowland, Wehrlein, and the other nine title competitors. A decisive moment in the championship could be just hours away, and on the unforgiving Berlin circuit, anything can happen.