Bedrin & Kvyat to Test for DS PENSKE at Madrid Formula E Rookie Test
Madrid is set to host its inaugural Formula E race on , and the event will feature a rookie test on with a compelling pairing of established motorsport talent and rising stars. DS PENSKE has announced that Formula 1 veteran Daniil Kvyat and promising young driver Nikita Bedrin will take the wheel during the test session at the Circuito del Jarama.
For 20-year-old Bedrin, the Madrid Rookie Test represents a significant opportunity to further his development within the DS PENSKE Driver Development Program. This will be his third time piloting the GEN3 Evo car, following appearances at the 2025 Berlin Rookie Test and a Rookie Free Practice session in Miami earlier in . His consistent inclusion in these sessions underscores the team’s confidence in his potential.
Bedrin’s racing background demonstrates a clear trajectory of success. He excelled in karting, notably dominating the 2020 WSK Super Master Series (OK) with victories in heats, qualifying, pre-finals, and finals. More recently, he secured a Sprint Race victory in the FIA Formula 3 Championship in 2024, showcasing his ability to compete at a high level in single-seater racing. Currently, Bedrin is competing in the GB3 Championship with VRD Racing for , aiming for a title challenge.
Joining Bedrin at DS PENSKE is Daniil Kvyat, a driver with considerable experience in the upper echelons of motorsport. The 31-year-old Russian-born driver has competed in Formula 1 with Red Bull Racing and Scuderia Toro Rosso, demonstrating adaptability and skill throughout his F1 career. Even as his time in Formula 1 concluded in 2020, Kvyat has continued to race competitively, and in he will make his debut in the Super GT series with JLOC (Japan Lamborghini Owners’ Club).
This won’t be Kvyat’s first experience with Formula E machinery. He previously participated in Rookie Tests for both DS PENSKE and NIO 333, gaining valuable insight into the unique demands of electric racing. His prior experience will likely prove beneficial as he adapts to the GEN3 Evo car.
The Madrid Rookie Test provides a crucial platform for both drivers to gain experience and contribute to the development of the DS PENSKE team. For Bedrin, it’s a continuation of his integration into the Formula E environment, while for Kvyat, it’s a chance to explore a new racing discipline and potentially demonstrate his versatility. The test will be held on , following the inaugural Madrid E-Prix on .
The Madrid E-Prix marks a significant milestone for the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, as it brings racing to Spain for the first time. The event, taking place at the Circuito del Jarama, is expected to draw a large crowd, particularly with Spanish driver Pepe Marti competing. The schedule for the race weekend includes Free Practice 1 on at 16:30 local time, Free Practice 2 on at 08:30 local time, Qualifying at 10:40 local time, and the race itself at 15:05 local time.
Fans can follow the action live through various channels, including web streaming, the Formula E app, and social media platforms. Live Timing will provide real-time data and track maps, while session reports, interviews, and behind-the-scenes content will be available throughout the event. The weekend promises a compelling blend of competitive racing and immersive fan engagement.