DS Virgin Racing have confirmed that Alex Lynn will partner Sam Bird for the 2017/2018 Formula E season, replacing José María López.
Lynn joined the team at the start of the year as reserve driver, which saw the Briton be drafted in for the New York ePrix double-header, which López was unable to attend due to LMP1 commitments with Toyota.
In his first competitive Formula E weekend, Lynn secured an impressive pole position for the first race. However, he was unable to finish either race that weekend.
Lynn’s effort have earned him a promotion to a full-time drive for season four, much to the delight of the 23-year-old.
“I am over the moon at being promoted to a full-time drive with the DS Virgin Racing Formula E Team,” said Lynn.
“Having worked very closely with them since January this year, it has been a genuine pleasure to learn from such a fantastic group of high quality engineers and to integrate myself into their set-up.
“Indeed, I have been made to feel very welcome throughout their organisation and I would specifically like to thank Alex Tai for not only giving me the chance to make my series debut in New York, but for subsequently promoting me to this full-time race seat.
“I am currently enjoying helping the team to further develop the car and intend to fully repay everyone’s faith in me on track next season.”
Team principal Alex Tai added that he believed bringing the next generation of drivers to Formula E is important for the sport.
“I’m delighted to announce our driver line-up for season four. Alex has always impressed me and has a proven track record in international motorsport so I know he will perform out of the blocks as we’ve already seen.
“It’s also important for us at DS Virgin Racing to be nurturing young drivers like Alex and the next generation of Formula E racers.
“Together with Sam, who has consistently proven himself to be one of the most talented drivers on the grid, and the pace of our car, I believe we have a very competitive package that can fight at the top.”
Whilst López was able to secure two podium finishes in his rookie Formula E season, he will now have little options available to him for season four, with the majority of seats seemingly filled.
