The Formula E Rookie Free Practice in Jeddah promises to be an exciting showcase of emerging talent and experienced drivers eager to make their mark in the all-electric racing series.
With a mix of young stars and seasoned professionals, this test session will offer a glimpse into the future of motorsport.
Among the drivers, some are familiar faces from other racing disciplines, while others are newcomers with high ambitions.
From the track insights of Formula 2 and Indy NXT drivers to the expertise of former F1 racers, each participant is set to provide valuable data for their teams.
As the competition heats up, these rookies are determined to leave their mark in Formula E’s rapidly evolving world.
Young talents shaping the future
Kush Maini
The 24-year-old Indian driver, currently with Mahindra, returns to racing eagerly. As part of the Alpine Junior Academy, Maini’s transition from Formula 2 to Formula E represents a significant milestone in his career. With years of racing experience, Maini is set to make the most of this opportunity, just ahead of his Formula 2 season with Invicta.
Zak O’Sullivan
The young British driver has found his footing with Envision following a tough break from Formula 2 in 2024. O’Sullivan has moved on to Super Formula for the new season, bringing an added layer of motivation. He’s eager to learn and gain experience in the all-electric world of Formula E, and his dedication could lead to future opportunities in the sport.
Mikkel Jensen
After a successful career in endurance racing, Jensen returns to single-seater racing with Cupra Kiro. The Danish driver is excited by the challenge of adapting to Formula E’s unique dynamics, having already tasted the simulator. His wealth of experience across different racing disciplines could make him one to watch in Jeddah.
Alexander Dunne
Part of McLaren’s Driver Development Program, Dunne’s entry into Formula E is highly anticipated. With a solid 2024 campaign in Formula 3 behind him, the Irishman is ready to take on this new challenge with NEOM McLaren Formula E Team. His passion and hard work in the simulator promise a bright future in the electric racing series.
Daniil Kvyat
A familiar face in motorsport, Russian driver Kvyat returns to the fast-paced world of Formula E with DS PENSKE. His extensive experience in Formula 1 will provide invaluable insights to the team, and he’s determined to make his mark in electric racing.
Gabriele Minì
The Italian driver and Formula 3 vice-champion is gearing up for a new challenge with Prema in Formula E. Minì’s previous experience with Nissan in Berlin makes him well-prepared for this rookie test. His focus on energy management and race efficiency will be key for both him and the team.
Jamie Chadwick
A standout in the motorsport world, Jamie Chadwick’s return to Formula E signals her rising star. The 26-year-old British driver, with an impressive triple world championship title in the W-Series, returns to the cockpit with Jaguar TCS Racing. Chadwick, who also races in Indy NXT, has shown her versatility and speed across various platforms. Her experience will be crucial to Jaguar’s performance in Jeddah.
Théo Pourchaire
After a brief hiatus, the French talent returns to Formula E with Maserati MSG Racing. Pourchaire’s solid track record in Formula 2 and adaptability across various racing series makes him a driver to watch. He’s ready to get back on track in Jeddah, where his experience with the circuit in Formula 2 could give him an edge.
Jak Crawford
Crawford, who impressed in his first Formula E outing in Berlin, continues to make strides in electric racing. The 19-year-old American is back for the rookie session with Andretti Formula E. His experience as a reserve driver for the team provides him with unique insight. The Jeddah track will offer an opportunity to gather valuable data.
Tatiana Calderon
Tatiana Calderon, the Colombian driver, makes her return to Formula E with Lola Yamaha ABT. After participating in last year’s Women’s Test, she’s back for the rookie session in Jeddah. Calderon’s diverse motorsport career – from Formula 2 to IMSA – has established her as one of the most skilled drivers in her field. Her experience in testing Formula E cars, including the GEN3 Evo, equips her with the tools to provide crucial feedback to the new team.
Women in Motorsport: a focus on Tatiana Calderon and Jamie Chadwick
The participation of women in motorsport continues to evolve. Both Tatiana Calderon and Jamie Chadwick are at the forefront of this movement.
Tatiana Calderon’s return to Formula E with Lola Yamaha ABT is another crucial step for women in motorsport. A seasoned driver with experience in major international championships, Calderon’s dedication to her craft makes her an essential figure for the future of women in electric racing. Her continued involvement symbolises progress and provides a pathway for future female racers in the sport.
On the other hand, Jamie Chadwick has already made a name for herself as a champion in the W-Series. Her work with Jaguar TCS Racing further solidifies her status as one of the brightest stars in motorsport. Chadwicks’s impressive achievements and consistent performances inspire the next generation of female drivers. Her participation in the rookie test in Jeddah represents a historic moment for both Chadwick and the series.
Together, these two drivers represent a growing presence for women in motorsport. They are showing that talent and determination can break down barriers and pave the way for more inclusivity in competitive racing.
Looking ahead: the future of Formula E
The upcoming rookie test in Jeddah is an exciting preview of the talent that could soon dominate Formula E. From the seasoned expertise of drivers like Kvyat and Calderon to the fresh perspectives of young stars like Maini and O’Sullivan; the test promises to deliver valuable data and insights for the teams. As the electric racing series continues to grow, these rookies could well be the sport’s future stars.
Feature Image Credit: Photo by Joe Portlock/LAT Images via FE Media Centre
