Envision Racing simulator driver Zak O'Sullivan has secured a valuable opportunity to drive the advanced GEN3 Evo car at the upcoming Miami Rookie Free Practice session. The 20-year-old British talent will join other promising rookies at this event, scheduled to take place just one day before the highly anticipated Miami E-Prix final on January 30.
What is the Miami Rookie Free Practice?
The Rookie Free Practice serves as a crucial platform for aspiring drivers to refine their racing skills on the track. Simultaneously, teams benefit significantly from the data collected during these sessions, which helps them prepare strategically for the race weekend. This particular practice is set in Miami, a location that made a triumphant return to the Formula E calendar last year after a decade-long absence.
Zak O'Sullivan's Racing Background and Role
Zak O'Sullivan is no stranger to Formula E rookie sessions, having previously participated in the Jeddah Rookie Free Practice and the Berlin Rookie Test. Currently, he competes in the Super Formula championship, showcasing his versatility and skill. As a simulator driver for Envision Racing, O'Sullivan steps in for seasoned drivers like Sebastien Buemi and Joel Eriksson when needed. His contributions extend beyond driving, as he actively participates in car development and testing processes within the team.
Reactions from O'Sullivan and Team Management
Expressing his enthusiasm about the confirmation for the Miami Rookie Free Practice, Zak O'Sullivan shared with FormulaE.com, "I'm excited to be driving for Envision Racing again, this time in Miami. I've really enjoyed the Formula E testing I've done so far, and I'll be working closely with the team to ensure they head into the race weekend in the strongest possible position."
Sylvain Filippi, Managing Director and CTO of Envision Racing, added, "The rookie session gives Zak, along with a number of highly talented young drivers, the opportunity to gain further experience in the GEN3 Evo car and provide valuable feedback ahead of the race weekend. We're looking forward to seeing Zak back in the car, particularly at a brand-new circuit for Formula E."
Other Rookies Participating in the Miami Session
Envision Racing is not the only team leveraging this opportunity. Lola Yamaha ABT has also granted its test driver, Hugh Barter, the chance to take part in the Miami Rookie Free Practice at the Miami International Autodrome.
Additional rookies set to participate include:
- Theo Pourchaire for Citroen Racing
- Indy NXT champion Dennis Hauger for Andretti
- Chloe Chambers for Mahindra Racing
Meanwhile, Cupra Kiro driver Pepe Martí stands out as the only full-time rookie driver scheduled to join the Rookie Free Practice. He has been permitted to participate because he is still classified as a rookie, having competed in only two Formula E races so far—the Sao Paulo and Mexico City E-Prix.
