Lola Yamaha ABT Reveals Drivers for Madrid Formula E Rookie Test
In a significant move for the upcoming Formula E season, Lola Yamaha ABT has officially announced its selections for the Madrid Rookie Test, joining the ranks of Porsche and Envision Racing who have already revealed their picks. The test, scheduled to follow the inaugural Madrid E-Prix on March 22, will feature two promising talents: Formula 2 race winner Richard Verschoor and experienced simulator test driver Hugh Barter. This event marks a crucial opportunity for rookies to gain hands-on experience with Formula E machinery while contributing valuable data at the new Madrid circuit, which is making its debut on the Formula E calendar.
Richard Verschoor: A Rising Star Making His Formula E Debut
Richard Verschoor, a member of the prestigious McLaren Driver Development Programme since January, is set to drive a Formula E car for the first time in Madrid. Despite this being his maiden outing in the electric racing series, Verschoor brings a wealth of track experience to the table. His impressive resume includes a victory at the 2019 Macau Grand Prix and multiple race wins in Formula 2 over the past five years, showcasing his speed and adaptability. Expressing his enthusiasm, Verschoor stated, "I'm excited to be joining Lola Yamaha ABT for the Rookie Test in Madrid. Driving the T001 will be my first outing in a Formula E car. I'm eager to learn and push forward together with the team." His selection underscores Lola Yamaha ABT's commitment to nurturing young talent and leveraging their skills for team development.
Hugh Barter: Simulator Expert Returns to the Track
On the other hand, Hugh Barter, the Lola Yamaha ABT Simulator Test Driver, has been granted another chance to get behind the wheel of a Formula E car. This will mark his fourth opportunity to experience the series, having most recently participated in the Miami Rookie Free Practice session earlier this season, where he secured a ninth-place finish. Barter, aged 20, plays a pivotal role in the team's operations, focusing on optimizing car set-up, strategy, and contributing to the development of Lola's next-generation GEN4 race car. Reflecting on the upcoming test, Barter shared, "Following the Rookie Free Practice in Miami in January, I'm really looking forward to having more time on track in the T001, both for my own experience and to help provide more in-depth feedback to the team." His continued involvement highlights the importance of simulator work in modern motorsport and its translation to real-world performance.
Team Leadership Welcomes the Duo
Lola Yamaha ABT Team Principal Mark Preston has warmly welcomed both drivers ahead of the Madrid Rookie Test. In his statement, Preston emphasized the value each brings to the team: "We are very pleased to have Richard join us for the Rookie Test in Madrid. He is a fast, knowledgeable and promising driver who we are sure will be a great asset to the team over the weekend. It's also great that Hugh is once again joining us to take to the track in the Lola T001. The more time he spends with us, both on track and in the simulator, the more invaluable his feedback has become. We therefore look forward to getting additional input from him in Madrid while giving him crucial development time on track." This endorsement from the team leadership underscores the strategic importance of the rookie test in preparing for future races and enhancing overall team performance.
The Madrid Rookie Test is poised to be a key event in the Formula E calendar, offering a platform for emerging drivers to showcase their abilities and for teams to refine their strategies. With Verschoor's raw talent and Barter's technical expertise, Lola Yamaha ABT is well-positioned to maximize the benefits of this session, contributing to the ongoing evolution of electric motorsport.
