McLaren have confirmed Sam Bird will join the team for the 2024 Formula E season alongside Jake Hughes to form on all-British line-up.
Bird has competed in every Formula E season since the series began in 2014 and will represent a third different time after spells with DS Virgin/Envision Virgin and Jaguar.
“I’m super excited to get going with the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team,” said Bird. “Becoming part of a team with so much heritage and prestige as the McLaren Racing family feels special.
“We know there is some work to do ahead of Season 10, to ensure we get to where we want to be, which is at the front of the Formula E pack. It feels great to be part of the team and I can’t wait to kick off the season preparations, I’m super motivated and driven to deliver success with the team in Season 10.”
Bird in, Rast out at McLaren
Bird had won a Formula E race every season until 2022, when he began to be largely outperformed by Mitch Evans at Jaguar.
He collided with the Kiwi at two races in 2023 and was replaced by Nick Cassidy at the end of the season, meaning he had to find a new team.
Total-Motorsport.com understands Bird signed a contract with McLaren ahead of the London E-Prix, taking Rene Rast‘s seat with the German set to not be on the grid in 2024.
“It is a pleasure to welcome Sam to the McLaren Racing family,” said McLaren CEO Zak Brown. “Throughout his time in Formula E, Sam has proven himself to be an impressive talent, and we are eager to leverage his experience and expertise to help bring the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team further success in Season 10.
“Alongside Jake, I’m confident that we have one of the strongest pairings on the Formula E grid. Bring on Season 10!”
Team principal Ian James added: “It’s great to be able to share the news that Sam will be joining the team for Season 10, alongside Jake. Sam is a proven force in Formula E, as well as other categories of racing, and his experience and determination will fuel the team ahead of an exciting season to come.
“As soon as the deal was done, his first question to me was when he could come into the office to start the preparations for Season 10 – this clearly shows his hunger and commitment to making 2 Season 10 a success for the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team. Having both Sam and Jake on board has already instilled confidence in the team.”
When is the 2024 Formula E season?
The new Formula E season begins with pre-season testing from Valencia at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo from October 23-27, with Mexico City hosting the 2024 opener on January 13.
