With Robin Frijns leaving Envision, he appears set to exit Formula E as a significant restructuring of the grid is on the horizon for the 2025-26 season.
McLaren’s departure from Formula E has understandably played a major role in this shake-up, resulting in at least two full-time drivers from the last season losing their seats due to the reduction to only 10 teams. Moreover, one or more teams are set to introduce new rookie drivers as the league gears up for a changeover to a next-generation vehicle in 2026-27.
Consequently, numerous established drivers, including Frijns, along with Sam Bird and possibly two-time champion Jean-Eric Vergne, face the likelihood of leaving the championship.
Current Driver Situation
Several drivers have secured their positions, such as world champion Oliver Rowland at Nissan, who will once again partner with Norman Nato. Despite Nato contributing only 21 points out of the team’s total of 207, he remains with the team.
Mahindra Racing intends to retain its successful lineup of 2020-21 champion Nyck de Vries and Edoardo Mortara. Their effectiveness helped the team finish fourth in the standings after a major car rebuild for the 2024-25 season.
Potential Changes Ahead
The fate of drivers remains uncertain, especially regarding Pascal Wehrlein, who will stay with Porsche, although it is unclear who will partner him. Both he and Antonio Felix da Costa played pivotal roles in Porsche winning the teams’ and manufacturers’ titles.
It is reported that da Costa is considering two paths: remaining with Porsche or moving to Jaguar alongside Evans. Post-race chatter hinted at a potential Jaguar partnership that da Costa has contemplated.
Drivers Facing Uncertainty
Bird seems poised to exit Formula E following McLaren’s abrupt withdrawal. The British driver, integral to the series since its inception, has amassed 141 race starts and 12 victories, making his departure feel definitive after emotional farewells during the London race weekend.
As contract negotiations progress, Jake Hughes could see himself without a seat, along with David Beckmann, whose disappointing season may lead to his exit from Cupra Kiro. However, Beckmann’s ties to Porsche could assist him moving forward.
