Taylor Barnard’s career in Formula E hasn’t followed a linear trajectory from the start. Going from Formula 2 to NEOM McLaren in 2024 and then to DS Penske after McLaren decided to exit Formula E. The Brit’s path in the category initially seemed like he was in the right place at the right time. However, that hasn’t been the case lately. Let me tell you why.
At NEOM McLaren
Taylor Barnard was racing in Formula 3 in 2023. He took part in the rookie test in Valencia with NEOM McLaren. This test led to his role as reserve and development driver for the 2024-2025 season. He also embarked on a racing campaign in Formula 2.
Sam Bird’s unfortunate incident during Free Practice 1 at the 2024 Monaco E-Prix, in which he broke his left hand, led to the Brit becoming the youngest ever driver to start a Formula E race. Barnard raced beautifully in Monaco and then went on to score in both races in Berlin. The British driver was then announced as the team’s official driver for the following season, partnering Sam Bird.
Taylor Barnard went on to have a stellar first Formula E full season. He started his season landing on the podium in the São Paulo E-Prix, thus becoming the youngest podium finisher in the history of the championship. Then Barnard was on the podium another five different times thanks to his great racecraft. He also took his first pole position at the Jeddah E-Prix. Then the Brit repeated himself on the narrow street of Monaco later in the year. As a result, he also became the youngest pole sitter ever in Formula. E
Barnard’s consistency was so good it resulted in a fourth-place finish in the championship as a rookie driver. His path was set to be excellent and full of great results and achievement. Unfortunately, NEOM McLaren announced that the team was going to leave Formula E after the 2024-2025 season. This surprising outcome brought about a lack of a seat for the successful British driver.
After such a successful campaign, there was then the abrupt matter of finding a new team to drive for.
At DS Penske
As a result of his incredible rookie season in Formula E, DS Penske signed Taylor Barnard for the 2025–2026 season. He replaced Jean-Eric Vergne. But Taylor Barnard has yet to match last season’s form at DS Penske.
Since the opening round, Barnard sits 13th in the standings with only 14 points to his name. The change to a new powertrain has probably been a major contributing factor to his challenging start of the season. The British driver is still getting acquainted with his new surroundings at DS Penske but I am sure he will soon show what he is capable of during this season. No matter the initial difficulties he experienced so far this season.
However, one problem remains for the British talent. Barnard needs to find a new team once again. His bad luck strikes once more as DS Penske will leave the championship after this season. Its place will be taken by Opel, as announced before the Madrid E-Prix. Will Taylor Barnard remain in the championship as an Opel driver or will he change team once again?
Featured Image Credit: TaylorBarnard1 on Instagram
Edited by Alexandra.
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