NEOM McLaren have announced that the drivers taking part in the Berlin Rookie test for the team will be Alex Dunne and Ella Lloyd.
The Berlin rookie test is a session exclusively for rookie drivers. It takes place after the Berlin E-Prix weekend and acts as an opportunity for teams to test their reserve, test, or other young drivers they may have their eye on for the future of the series.
For NEOM McLaren, they have two of their academy drivers taking part in the weekend.
Alex Dunne
Alex Dunne is no stranger to McLaren. As a member of the McLaren driver development programme since 2023, Dunne has continually impressed in his racing journey.
Currently, the Irishman races in Formula 2 where he sits second in the championship. He’s taken multiple wins and looks like a strong title contender. Alongside his F2 campaign, the McLaren junior has also stepped into the role of the NEOM McLaren Formula E reserve driver.
Speaking about the opportunity, Dunne said: “I’m very excited to be getting another opportunity in the GEN3 Evo at the Berlin Rookie Test next month. Since I joined the team as Reserve and Development Driver, I’ve learnt so much about what it takes to get the maximum out of these cars, and I can’t wait to get out on track again.”
Ian James, the NEOM McLaren team principal also spoke about the decision and how he believes Dunne will make the most of the opportunity:
“Having already played a crucial role in supporting the team this season as our Reserve and Development Driver, I’m very pleased that Alex will have another opportunity behind the wheel of the GEN3 Evo at the Berlin Rookie Test.
“Alex has shown to have great pace and skill in Formula 2 this season, and I hope he will take this confidence with him to make the most of this outing in Berlin.”
Ella Lloyd
Ella Lloyd is the second driver stepping into the Gen3Evo McLaren for the session. Lloyd currently competes in F1 Academy as a member of the McLaren development driver programme. Where she took a win in Jeddah.
Alongside her F1 academy season, Lloyd has also taken part in a second season of British F4. The Berlin rookie test will be Lloyd’s second outing in the Gen3Evo. Previously testing out the machinery in the pre-season Women’s test.
Ella spoke about the opportunity: “I’m really looking forward to getting behind the wheel of the GEN3 Evo car again with the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team. I learnt so much at the Women’s Test in Madrid. I’m excited to have another opportunity to get out on track and put all the preparation I’ve been doing in the simulator into practice.”
Ian James also commented on Ella Lloyd’s potential and the decision to have her drive in the session: “Ella is a very exciting young talent, and I’m thrilled that she will be back in the GEN3 Evo at the Berlin Rookie Test. Having worked alongside her over the course of this season. Ella’s professionalism and eagerness to learn left an impression on the whole team.
“I’m sure that she will continue to build on her knowledge and experience when we head out to Berlin.”
