McLaren Formula E has confirmed that Taylor Barnard will partner Sam Bird for the upcoming 2024/25 season.
Barnard, a finalist within the 2023 Aston Martin Autosport BRDC Young Driver of the Year awards, replaces Jake Hughes, who was confirmed at Maserati MSG earlier this month.
The Briton became the youngest driver to compete within the all-electric championship when he made his debut on the 2024 Monaco E-Prix, aged 19. He was called in as a alternative for Bird, who broke his arm in a training crash.
After ending 14th on the streets of Monte Carlo, Barnard scored double points at the following race in Berlin before returning to his role as McLaren's reserve and development driver following Bird's return.
After impressing during his performances, McLaren announced on Tuesday that he’ll race full-time for the team within the upcoming season.
“I’m looking forward to racing with Sam this season and I’m sure I’ll learn a lot from him,” said Barnard, who also raced in Formula 2 with AIX Racing this yr and won the sprint race in Monaco.
“He is probably the most experienced drivers on the grid and I hope that together we will rating lots of points and win some trophies for the team.
Taylor Barnard, NEOM McLaren Formula E Team, e-4ORCE 04
Photo: Sam Bagnall / Motorsports images
“This is an incredible opportunity to proceed my journey with the team full-time.
I'm a Formula E driver and I can't wait to start.”
Bird, meanwhile, will begin his second season with McLaren by taking the British team’s first Formula E victory in Sao Paulo, overtaking them on the ultimate lap.
However, the 37-year-old Briton did not stand on the rostrum again because he injured the identical hand he broke in London within the 2021/22 season.
After scoring just two points within the last six races on his return, Bird finished the season level on points with Hughes, ending thirteenth overall, while McLaren could only manage seventh within the teams' championship.
Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren, said: “As we enter our third yr of competition in Formula E, I’m delighted that we’ll have such a powerful driver line-up in Sam and Taylor.
“Both have proven to be impressive talents, each in Formula E and in other categories.
“I look forward to utilising their skills and experience to help the McLaren Formula E Team achieve success in Season 11.”
