Mahindra Racing extends its contract with driver Roberto Merhi for the final Formula E rounds in Rome and London, while reserve driver Jehan Daruvala is slated to participate in Rome's Rookie free practice test session.
Mahindra Racing’s Merhi, who showcased his skills during his debut race weekend in Jakarta and subsequent outing in the Southwire Portland E-Prix, will take the wheel of the #8 Mahindra M9Electro alongside Lucas Di Grassi in the #11 car.
Merhi expressed his eagerness for the upcoming races, saying, "I’m really looking forward to jumping back into the car for the final two races of the season. I would like to thank Mahindra Racing for the opportunity and the trust they have shown in me. I know Rome and London are new tracks for me, which will make it a bit more challenging, but I will make sure I adapt quickly.”
In another development, Mahindra Racing revealed that their reserve driver, Jehan Daruvala, will participate in the Rookie free practice test session in Rome. Notably, he impressed the field by securing the third fastest time in the morning session during the Official Rookie Test day in Berlin. This test was held on April 24 this year.
Daruvala expressed gratitude for the opportunity, saying, "I'm very grateful for the chance to drive for the team at the Rookie test in Rome. We had a very successful test last time out in Berlin, so I'm looking forward to more of the same in Rome."
Mahindra Racing's CEO, Fred Bertrand, expressed his delight at the continued presence of Roberto Merhi in the team until the end of Season 9. The CEO also underscored the significance of Jehan Daruvala joining the team in Rome for the Rookie practice session, reinforcing the team's strength and enabling valuable feedback from all drivers ahead of the Rome race weekend. He also highlighted the team's attention on Season 10 while anticipating the final two events.
The next E-Prix in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship is the double-header event in Rome set to take place on July 15-16.