McLaren reveals its first Formula E driver! Three-time DTM champion René Rast returns to the electric formula championship

The McLaren brand is gradually expanding into other spheres of the motorsport world. After entering the American IndyCar series, it has decided to try its luck in Formula E. It will be backed by Rene Rast from next season. A driver with a lot of experience not only in Formula E, but also in other famous championships, such as the DTM, where Rast can boast three championship titles!

Rast is returning to the electric formula championship after having terminated his one-year relationship with Audi at the end of the seventh season (2020/21). As well as racing in Formula E, Rast also competed in the DTM, where he dominated the prestigious championship a total of three times between 2017 and 2020.

“I’m delighted to be joining McLaren, a team that has always appealed to me as a racing fan,” said Rast. “I’ve already done one season in Formula E. It was a great experience and I knew immediately that I wanted to return to Formula E. I’m delighted that McLaren is giving me the opportunity to continue in the championship.”

Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, added:. He’s a real racer and has proven he can be fast in any car. His previous experience in Formula E will help us as we enter this new era of McLaren racing.”

McLaren has not yet decided who will become Rast’s teammate. It is believed that someone from the American IndyCar championship will join the German driver. Both McLaren drivers Pato O’Ward and Felix Rosenqvist are coming to the end of their contracts. These two are among the leading candidates for the second seat in Formula E.

But reigning IndyCar champion Alex Palou cannot be ruled out either. The Spaniard, following a controversial statement by his employer Chip Ganassi Racing, was expected to remain with the team for the 2023 season. Palou has spoken out in the wake of that statement, confirming instead that he has joined the McLaren driver line-up.

However, it has not yet been confirmed where the 25-year-old driver will be heading for next year. Options in play range from a continuation in IndyCar to a potentially shocking involvement in Formula One.

FIA Formula E, Race Fans