What is the proposal?
Formula E and the FIA are seriously considering a competition element in the annual rookie test. The test will take place at Jarama in March next season. Teams must field two drivers who have not yet driven in a live championship session.
What would it look like?
The plan is to use the current qualifying format as an example. Think group qualifying followed by duel-style face-offs between drivers. The planned six hours of testing time would be partly divided and one part reserved for such a qualifying-like session.
Why is this being proposed?
There are several reasons to consider this. The current six-hour test generates little public interest. Few media stay another day to follow the test. Teams also want to assess rookies in conditions similar to real race stress. Gen3 group racing and driving on temporary street circuits require specific skills. As a result, experience and established drivers weigh heavily. At the same time, there is a growing belief that young talent from Formula 2 and Formula 3 is ready for Gen4.
Nissan's position
Dorian Boisdron, racing director at Nissan, says experience is crucial in Formula E, and he believes teams should bring in new talent for the upcoming Gen4 period. According to him, a qualifying-style test helps assess rookies in a more realistic Formula E context. That makes it easier for teams and drivers to make a choice together.
Backlash from the paddock
Not everyone is enthusiastic. Andretti team boss Roger Griffiths warns that competition may not be the right focus. He points out that many rookies are already competing in F2 or F3. According to Griffiths, the rookie test should primarily be a learning environment. Drivers need to get used to working with manufacturers and engineers. According to him, the competitive tension is better off elsewhere.
Practical implications
If the new set-up comes through, it will mainly change the format of the test day. Teams will have a clearer measuring point for driver performance in qualifying conditions. At the same time, the importance of good set-up and team readiness on that one competitive session may increase.
- Benefits: better assessment of rookies, more realistic race conditions, visibility for talents.
- Cons: Less focus on learning work with engineers, extra pressure on young drivers, possibly more risk of incidents during test.
What happens next?
There are already exploratory talks with teams and manufacturers. A final decision has not yet been made. Jarama is planned as the venue in March. Teams and organisation are keeping the options open and weighing the pros and cons.
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