Former Mercedes Formula 1 prospect Paul Aron will have his first Formula E appearance in May in Berlin. The 20-year-old Estonian will join Envision Jaguar, the reigning teams’ champion, which will also feature Joel Eriksson, the current reserve driver with eight E-Prix starts. Envision is forced to replace both of its drivers for the double-header round at Tempelhof airport due to their prior commitments in the World Endurance Championship. Sebastien Buemi and Robin Frijns will be participating in the 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps for Toyota and BMW respectively, making them unable to compete in the Sunday Berlin E-Prix race. Envision expressed disappointment in this situation and emphasized the competitiveness of their new drivers.
Aron’s departure from Mercedes’ junior program last year after a four-year affiliation could prove to be a turning point in his career. Despite being a rookie in Formula 2, Aron currently holds the second position in the standings with three podium finishes in the first six races. His experience in the series is limited, but he has quickly adapted to the changes brought about by the new car regulations in 2024. In preparation for his Formula E debut, Aron will replace Jack Aitken as the designated rookie for the mandatory rookie practice at Misano.
Envision expressed gratitude to Aitken for his understanding as he was unable to join the Berlin roster due to his commitments as a works Cadillac driver in IMSA at Laguna Seca. Another driver making his Formula E race debut in Berlin is Jordan King, a former Manor F1 tester. King will be filling in for Nyck de Vries, the 2021 champion, who is also absent due to a clash in the World Endurance Championship. As a long-time reserve and development driver for Mahindra, King will have a free practice outing during the upcoming Misano race weekend on April 12.