The next Formula E race weekend will take place in New York City on July 15-16 but sadly enough, DS Virgin Racing driver Jose Maria Lopez won’t be able to compete, as he’ll be driving in the World Endurance Championship’s 6 Hours of Nürburgring race.
However, not to worry though as reserve driver Alex Lynn will take his place driving alongside Sam Bird. That leaves the team without a reserve driver but has been willingly replaced by none other than Virgin Group founder, Sir Richard Branson.
That means the team’s entire lineup for the race will be made up of British talent, and Branson is excited to fill the role.
He said, “I heard about the situation at the team and offered my services! As you know, I’ve always loved a challenge and Alex, Sam and myself are the three plucky Brits ready to take on New York. Team Principal Alex Tai is putting me through my paces before the event; I’ve organised some testing time on the streets of Manhattan ahead of the race so hopefully I can impress the boss!”
Delighted to be official @DSVirginRacing reserve driver for #FormulaE #NYCePrix. Time to do some testing! pic.twitter.com/fw9H0upemY
— Richard Branson (@richardbranson) June 28, 2017
As for Alex Lynn, the DS Virgin Racing Team Principal Alex Tai has faith in the 23-year-old driver, “I’ve long been an admirer of Alex as a driver so it will great to see what he is capable of and how quickly he can adapt to the competitive world of Formula E. As it’s a new track it will be a level playing field for all drivers so, combined with our quick car, hopefully we can achieve the results we deserve. And besides there’s always Richard to fall back on!”
The Formula E New York City ePrix (round 9 and 10) will take place on Saturday, July 15 and Sunday, July 16.
Source: DS Virgin Racing
