McLaren have revealed that promising young star Taylor Barnard will be joining their Formula E team as a reserve and development driver.
The 19-year-old British driver impressed during his debut season in Formula 3, and claimed his maiden win in the series last year at Spa-Francorchamps.
Barnard will race in Formula Regional next season with the PHM Aix Racing team, alongside his backup role in Formula E, allowing him to continue his development in a full-time racing environment.
Young Brit Barnard will hope to follow fellow countrymen Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris in joining the McLaren team as a youngster and working their way through the ranks to become Formula 1 stars.
On the arrival of the news, Barnard could not contain his excitement.
“I’m super excited and honoured to be joining the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team as a Reserve and Development Driver," he said in a press release.
"Having an opportunity to work with a team such as NEOM McLaren is a great opportunity for my future and I will be working as hard as I can to support the team and working hard to learn as much as possible!
Meanwhile Ian James, managing director of the NEOM McLaren Formula E team, said:
“I am delighted to officially welcome Taylor to the team, after giving him his first taste of electric racing in Valencia last October. He is an incredibly impressive up-and-coming talent in single seater motorsport, and I’m looking forward to working with him in 2024.
"Taylor will play an important role within our team, and I am confident he will be adding value to the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team with his drive and talent, while also gaining valuable experience himself along the way.”