P1racenews AI automatic summary:
With the F1 door closed, Theo Pourchaire is about to get a Formula E chance – once Sam Smith thinks could be the start of something big
Théo Pourchaire is set to partake in the extra Formula E practice session for rookies in Jeddah next week with Maserati MSG as he assesses his long-term future in motorsport beyond 2025. Pourchaire will be driving Stoffel Vandoorne’s car during the 40-minute session, having already undergone simulator testing for the team. The 2023 Formula 2 champion has dipped his toes in IndyCar and Super Formula, including a test run with Peugeot’s Hypercar in November last year. Despite difficulties during the Gen3 project, Pourchaire showed promise as the initial test and development driver in 2022. Following the Jeddah session, potential participation in the Berlin rookie test in July may be considered. Team principal Cyril Blais expressed excitement about Pourchaire’s capabilities, emphasizing his speed and potential in Formula E. Pourchaire’s prior experience with the Gen3 mule car has been factored into this opportunity, heralding a new wave of talent in the upcoming Gen4 Formula E era as veteran drivers begin to phase out of the grid.
