Former Mercedes driver to make Formula E debut

Ahead of next month's Berlin E-Prix double-header, Envision has confirmed that F2 driver Paul Aron and Jaguar reserve driver Joel Eriksson will be replacing Sebastian Buemi and Robin Frijns.

Envision are the team impacted the most by Formula E's clash next month with the World Endurance Championship's Six Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, as both Buemi and Frijns are contracted to race in Belgium.

Several Formula E drivers have seats in WEC, although some are prioritising racing in Berlin, for example, Stoffel Vandoorne and Jean-Eric Vergne.

There had been hope that the FIA would allow those competing in both championships to travel from Spa to Berlin to compete in the second race of the double-header, but this option was rejected following a vote.

It has left Envision in an "unusual situation", which team principal Sylvain Filippi is far from pleased about.

“This is a very unusual situation for us as a team, and we are obviously frustrated that the calendar clash could not be resolved by the FIA and FEO” said Filippi.

“However, we have to make the best of the situation, and I believe with both Joel and Paul we have two very exciting and competitive drivers.”

Despite not being allowed to race in Berlin, Buemi and Frijns will be with the team in the German capital on the Sunday.

Aron's preparations underway

Aron in particular has never even driven Formula E machinery before, and will now take part in the Misano rookie test this Friday instead of ex-F1 driver Jack Aitken to get up to speed.

The Estonian is, of course, a former member of the Mercedes family, which he left at the conclusion of last season. He has made an exceptional start to his second F2 campaign and has claimed three podiums in six races.

In preparation for his competitive Formula E debut next month, Aron has started an intensive simulator programme.

“It’s a great opportunity to race for Envision Racing in Berlin. I’m very much looking forward to experiencing Formula E for the first time and working with the team,” said Aron.

“We’ll be working hard up until the race to prepare for the event, starting with the rookie session this week in Misano.”

Alongside Aron will be Jaguar's reserve driver Eriksson, who the Coventry-based side has loaned to their customer team.

The Swede has plenty of Formula E experience and has eight starts in the Gen2 era for Dragon/Penske Autosport to his name.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for me to be racing in Formula E again, this time with Envision Racing.”
said Eriksson.

“After taking part in my first ever Formula E test with Envision, it’s great to be racing for them in
Berlin, and we’ll be working hard together to have a successful weekend.”