Round 6 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship will be hosted in Madrid with an exciting twist to the weekend. On Sunday, 22nd March, a rookie test will take place, and Jaguar TCS Racing has confirmed the two rookie drivers that complete their line-up. Joining the team once again, Juju Noda will take on the Spanish track alongside Bryce Aron.
Juju Is Back on Track
Making an appearance in the All-Women’s Test in Valencia last October, Noda is back with Jaguar for the Madrid Rookie Test. The recall confirms Jaguar’s faith in her, continuing a working relationship that aids both parties. She made her mark in Super Formula by becoming the first Japanese woman to race in the series and is eager to make her mark in the Rookie Test. When asked about the opportunity, she replied,
”I’m very grateful to Jaguar TCS Racing for giving me this opportunity – testing the Jaguar I‑TYPE 7 in Valencia last year was a fantastic experience, and the support and feedback from the team helped me grow a lot as a driver. To now take part in the official Rookie Test in Madrid is a big moment for me, and I’m excited to learn as much as I can and show what I’m capable of.”
A First for the American Rookie
Though this is his first time driving the GEN3 Evo car, Aron has an abundance of experience in motorsport. He is currently competing in the Indy NXT Series, aspiring to eventually graduate over to the IndyCar Series. The 22-year-old has already achieved two podiums and accumulated multiple points through his top-ten finishes, proving a strong candidate from the Rookie Test.
Swapping his single-seater in America for a seat in an all-electric car, Aron will make his debut in the world of Formula E. When asked about the opportunity ahead, the American driver expresses his excitement to work with Jaguar.
”I’m really looking forward to join Jaguar TCS Racing for the Rookie Test in Madrid. With Formula E being a professional World Championship, I’m excited to have the chance to work with a team performing at such a high level – it’s a huge opportunity for me.”
Talking about his goal for the day, he added
”I will be looking to learn as much as possible from the engineers and drivers, and making the most of every lap.”
The Next Step for the Younger Talents
Formula E’s mission to elevate younger talent is the forefront reason for the Rookie Test. It exposes upcoming drivers to a championship-level series, giving them the experience that they may not usually secure. Ian James, Jaguar TCS Racing’s Team Principal, beams with pride about supporting new talents. He states,
“We’re also proud to be supporting the next generation of racing talent with both Juju and Bryce, who have already demonstrated exceptional ability and professionalism in their careers. This Rookie Test gives them a valuable opportunity, and we’re looking forward to welcoming them to Circuito del Jarama and seeing how they take on this next step.”
With the Madrid Rookie Test fast approaching, more teams are announcing their rookie lineup. Stay tuned for upcoming articles about who has been confirmed and on-track interviews when we take on Madrid!