As Formula E edges closer to the Miami E-Prix weekend, Friday’s Rookie Free Practice session is beginning to take clear shape. With early confirmations from Porsche, which announced Ayhancan Güven, and DS Penske, which named Nikita Bedrin, the list of drivers set to take part has now reached six confirmed names.
The remaining seats at Envision Racing, Jaguar TCS Racing, Lola Yamaha ABT and Nissan are still open and are expected to be filled in the coming days, with final decisions due up to seven days before the session, scheduled for Friday, January 30, ahead of Formula E’s first-ever race around the Hard Rock Stadium.
What is emerging is not only a growing roster of young talent, but also a clear picture of how teams are interpreting the rookie framework. Some are prioritising long-term development, others continuity, and a few are using the regulations to maximise immediate value from a rare and highly relevant track session.
A session designed for opportunity, not simulation
The Rookie Free Practice in Miami will take place on the newly approved shorter configuration of the International Hard Rock Stadium Autodrome, a layout that combines fast sections with tight, technical corners. Although limited to just 40 minutes, the session offers a full Formula E experience.
Rookies will drive the same GEN3 Evo cars used by full-season drivers, under genuine race-weekend conditions. Energy management, braking regeneration, software systems and tyre behaviour must all be understood in real time, leaving little margin for error.
With Miami representing Formula E’s only stop in the United States this season, the importance of the session extends beyond development alone. For teams, it is a rare opportunity to gather meaningful data on a brand-new circuit before competitive running begins.
Cupra Kiro opts for continuity with Martí
One of the most discussed confirmations so far comes from Cupra Kiro, which nominated Pepe Martí for the Rookie Free Practice. At first glance, the decision appears conservative, given Martí’s status as a full-time race driver alongside Dan Ticktum.
However, the choice is fully aligned with the Sporting Regulations. According to Article 4.7, a driver is considered a rookie until the end of the season in which they first compete in Formula E. With only two complete races to his name, Martí remains eligible to take part despite holding a race seat.
Rather than introducing an unfamiliar driver, Cupra Kiro has chosen to deepen Martí’s experience with the GEN3 Evo car in competitive conditions. On a new circuit where correlation between simulation and reality is crucial, continuity offers clear technical advantages.
Chambers returns with Mahindra after Valencia standout
Another confirmed name is Chloe Chambers, who will once again work with Mahindra Racing, repeating the partnership seen during pre-season testing in Valencia.
Chambers was the standout performer in the Women’s Test, topping the overall timesheets after two sessions. She set a best lap of 1:22.767 in the second outing, reinforcing Mahindra’s strong form following consistent performances from Edoardo Mortara and Nyck de Vries earlier in the week.
Her return in Miami suggests a structured development path rather than a one-off appearance. With prior GEN3 experience and an established technical relationship with the team, Chambers arrives as one of the most prepared drivers in the rookie field.
Andretti brings Hauger back to Formula E
Andretti has confirmed Dennis Hauger for the Miami Rookie Free Practice, marking the Norwegian’s second appearance in an official Formula E rookie session.
Hauger previously drove for Porsche during the Rookie Free Practice at the Berlin E-Prix in May 2024. Now, he returns with Andretti at what is effectively a home event for the American-based team.
“We’re ready for FP0 with Andretti,” Hauger said in a video message. “I’m really excited. It will be fun to get back into a Formula E car for the second time. I’m looking forward to seeing how it goes.”
The timing is notable, as Hauger is set to make his IndyCar debut in 2026 with Dale Coyne Racing. He arrives in Miami as the 2025 Indy NXT champion with Andretti, and with previous titles in Italian Formula 4 and Formula 3, making him one of the most accomplished drivers on the rookie list.
Pourchaire strengthens Citroën’s rookie programme
Théo Pourchaire is another driver linked to Friday’s session, this time with Citroën, the current championship leader and itself a newcomer to Formula E.
A member of the Stellantis young driver programme, Pourchaire already has experience in the category. Last season, he took part in rookie sessions in Jeddah and Berlin with Maserati, the predecessor of the current Citroën operation. His work was well regarded, particularly for his rapid adaptation to electric racing and the quality of his technical feedback.
The Miami session carries added importance, as it comes just before Citroën’s first Formula E race around the Hard Rock Stadium. It also provides continuity in development as the brand continues to establish itself at the front of the grid.
More confirmations still to come
Each Formula E team is expected to nominate one driver for the Rookie Free Practice, meaning several announcements are still pending. Envision Racing, Jaguar TCS Racing, Lola Yamaha ABT, and Nissan have yet to confirm their selections.
With decisions expected in the days leading up to January 30, the Miami Rookie Free Practice is evolving into more than a developmental exercise. It is becoming a clear reflection of how teams balance regulation, opportunity and strategy, while giving the next generation a rare chance to prove itself on one of the most high-profile stages of the Formula E season.
