The Shifting Sands of Formula E: Driver Market Dynamics






Navigating the Electric Circuit: Who's In, Who's Out, and Who's Next?
Uncertain Futures: Veteran Drivers and Team Departures
The Formula E landscape is set for a dramatic reshuffle as the 2025-26 season approaches. Robin Frijns's apparent departure from Envision signals the beginning of major changes. McLaren's withdrawal from the championship has also had a ripple effect, ensuring at least two seasoned drivers from the previous season will be seeking new opportunities, leaving only ten teams to vie for talent. Additionally, there's widespread anticipation that at least one team will introduce new rookie drivers, particularly as the series looks ahead to a new generation of cars in 2026-27. This period of transition means that several long-standing figures in the sport, including Frijns and Sam Bird, and potentially even two-time champion Jean-Eric Vergne, might find themselves without a seat.
Established Paddock Residents: Secure Driver Lineups
Despite the prevailing winds of change, some drivers have solidified their positions. Reigning world champion Oliver Rowland is confirmed to remain with Nissan, continuing his partnership with Norman Nato. Mahindra Racing is also expected to retain its effective duo of Nyck de Vries, the 2020-21 Formula E champion, and the experienced Edoardo Mortara. This pair proved instrumental in Mahindra's strong fourth-place finish in the teams' standings last season, following a comprehensive car overhaul. Meanwhile, Mitch Evans is set to continue his long-standing association with Jaguar. However, Nick Cassidy has announced his departure from Jaguar and is widely expected to join a Stellantis-powered team, in addition to a role with Peugeot in the World Endurance Championship.
Porsche's Predicament: Teammate Decisions and Potential Moves
Pascal Wehrlein's position at Porsche remains secure, but the identity of his future teammate is less certain. Antonio Felix da Costa, who helped Porsche secure both the teams' and manufacturers' titles last month, is evaluating his options. Speculation suggests da Costa might either remain with Porsche or potentially move to Jaguar to partner with Evans. A candid exchange between Cassidy and da Costa in London, where Cassidy implied a car was "ready" for da Costa, only fueled these rumors. Elsewhere, Jake Dennis, the 2022-23 champion, is likely to continue with Andretti, though his teammate could change. Nico Mueller, a Porsche factory driver, might transition to the main team or be assigned to customer team Cupra Kiro, potentially paving the way for reserve driver Jak Crawford.
Emerging Talent and Shifting Alliances: The Dynamic Landscape
Dan Ticktum has become a highly sought-after driver in Formula E after a remarkable season with Cupra Kiro, highlighted by his maiden victory in Jakarta and first pole position in London. Porsche is reportedly interested in Ticktum, and if da Costa moves to Jaguar, Ticktum's name is in circulation as a potential partner for Wehrlein. However, questions remain about how his outspoken personality would fit within the Porsche team culture. The Stellantis group faces a complex puzzle, with two teams and more drivers than available seats. While Cassidy is expected to secure a position, Taylor Barnard, following an impressive debut with the now-departed McLaren, is also strongly rumored for a seat. Maximilian Guenther, a two-time winner last season, is set to stay, but the final Stellantis spot is contested, with two-time champion Jean-Eric Vergne potentially losing his place despite a long-standing association with DS Automobiles. Stoffel Vandoorne, another former champion, insists he has another year on his contract. Lola Yamaha ABT is expected to retain Zane Maloney and Lucas di Grassi. Finally, with Frijns leaving Envision, Sebastien Buemi is likely to remain with the team, with either former Formula 2 champion Felipe Drugovich or reserve driver Zak O'Sullivan being considered as his new teammate.
Drivers on the Edge: High Stakes and Uncertain Futures
The departure of McLaren from Formula E has left several drivers in precarious positions. Sam Bird, a veteran of the series since its inaugural race, with 141 starts and 12 victories, appears to be without a drive. His emotional farewells in London suggested a final chapter in his Formula E career. Jake Hughes is also anticipated to be looking for a new team outside the Stellantis network, with his manager, Mark Blundell, actively engaged in contract discussions. Furthermore, David Beckmann's future at Cupra Kiro is uncertain after a challenging season, although his existing relationship with Porsche could provide a lifeline for the 2025-26 season.