It isn’t long until Formula E returns, with the Madrid E-Prix just around the corner. The weekend also features Rookie Testing, and Cupra Kiro have announced one of their rookie drivers. The honour goes to their development driver, Bianca Bustamante. This test signifies her third outing with the team and solidifies both Kiro’s and Formula E’s dedication to providing more opportunities for female drivers.
A Third Outing For Bustamante and Cupra Kiro
Bustamante joined the Formula E grid ahead of the 2024-25 season when she competed in the women’s pre-season test for the McLaren Formula E Team. Following that, in 2025, Cupra Kiro signed her as their development driver.
Last year, she participated in the Berlin rookie test and the women’s test with Cupra Kiro. In the Valencia test, Bustamante came third in the second session, showing early progression with the car and team. Now, she has been announced to be the team’s first rookie for the upcoming Madrid Rookie Test. “We’re very excited to give Bianca her next taste of Formula E in Madrid and can’t wait to see her build upon her current progress.” Team Principal Russell O’Hagan commented on the announcement.
This rookie test, held during the inaugural Madrid E-Prix weekend, will not only provide the team with extra running but also serve as a way to help Bustamante prepare and develop her own talent. Alongside her development duties for the team, Bustamante will also be debuting in the Eurocup-3 series, which begins in May.
Solidifying Female Presence
Bustamante’s announcement shows that Formula E is committed to helping develop young talent across the board. From the women’s-only test to teams signing female drivers, they are continuing to champion female talent in the series.
“Since joining Cupra Kiro as our Development Driver in Season 11, Bianca has impressed us enormously, not only with her professionalism and maturity, but in the role she’s played in our development and in actively promoting female participation in motorsport.“
~ O’Hagan shared about Bustamante in the team.
“After first getting behind the wheel of the Cupra Kiro in Berlin, my most recent test in Valencia was a really positive step forward, so to be back in the car again so soon is a fantastic opportunity to keep learning, to push myself, and to apply everything I’ve been working on behind the scenes.”
~ Bustamante had her say on the opportunity.
The Madrid Rookie Test happens on the 22nd March. With teams fielding two rookies each, who will be joining Bustamante at Cupra Kiro?