Mahindra snap up one of Formula E's unluckiest drivers

Mahindra has announced the signing of Jake Hughes as its new reserve and simulator driver, following the Briton’s exit from the Formula E grid.

Hughes found himself without a seat for Season 12 following Maserati’s complete overhaul into fellow Stellantis brand Citroën, which signed Jean-Éric Vergne and Nick Cassidy.

The former Maserati and McLaren Formula E driver had appeared on the verge of a move to Cupra Kiro to replace David Beckmann, to the extent that he tested the outfit’s car prior to pre-season testing in Valencia, according to The Race.

Unfortunately for Hughes, he was not signed, with rookie Pepe Martí taking the seat to partner Dan Ticktum. This left the 31-year-old out of options for a Formula E race seat.

However, ahead of this weekend’s second round in Mexico City, it has been confirmed that he will join Mahindra for the remainder of the season as a reserve and simulator driver.

He joins Formula 2 star Kush Maini in the team’s reserve driver roster, with Hughes having a firm eye on Mahindra’s Gen4 development.

"I’m excited to begin this next chapter in my Formula E career with Mahindra Racing," said Hughes. 

"What Mahindra have built over the past few seasons is very impressive, and it’s clear that the team is on a really positive trajectory.

"I’m looking forward to playing my part and helping to move this team – which is one of the championship’s iconic names – back towards the front of the grid."

Since breaking onto the Formula E grid three years ago, Hughes has quickly become one of the fastest drivers in the championship, with many in the paddock believing he deserves a seat.

Whether a return to the grid will happen next season for Gen4’s arrival remains to be seen, but he has already got stuck into his new role with Mahindra.

"It’s fantastic to welcome Jake to Mahindra Racing as our new Reserve and Simulator Driver," said team principal Fred Bertrand. 

"Jake gives us additional strength in depth in our driver line-up, and equally a very experienced, talented driver who can make a significant contribution across our GEN3 Evo and GEN4 test programmes.

"We’re very excited to work with him and, alongside Nyck [de Vries], Edo [Mortara] and Kush, believe this gives us one of the most complete and experienced driver line-ups in Formula E."