Arthur Leclerc, younger brother of Scuderia Ferrari Formula 1 driver Charles Leclerc, is set to make a surprise return to the Formula E paddock as part of the Maserati MSG Racing lineup for the rookie tests scheduled to take place on July 14. The test session will be held at the historic Tempelhof Airport Circuit in Berlin, Germany, a familiar venue for electric racing. Leclerc will be joined by French driver Théo Pourchaire, the 2023 FIA Formula 2 Champion.
A Notable Driver Duo for Maserati’s Rookie Program
Théo Pourchaire is already familiar with Maserati MSG Racing, having represented the team earlier this season during the rookie test session in Jeddah. He remains one of the leading candidates for a full-time seat in the Formula E World Championship grid for the 2026 season. After parting ways with the Sauber Academy in 2024, Pourchaire has increasingly turned his focus toward electric single-seater racing, viewing Formula E as a serious and competitive alternative to Formula 1.
“I’m really excited to return with Maserati MSG Racing for the rookie test in Berlin,” said Pourchaire. “Driving the Gen3 Evo car in Diriyah was an amazing experience. I learned so much and I’m looking forward to another opportunity to improve and gain experience in the unique and challenging environment that Formula E offers.”
Arthur Leclerc’s Return: From Formula 2 to Electric Racing
Arthur Leclerc’s connection with Formula E and Maserati is not new. He was first involved in the championship back in 2017, when he served as a development driver for the team—then known as Venturi Racing. He later took on the role of test and reserve driver between 2019 and 2020, and also participated in the rookie test held in Marrakesh in 2019, driving the second-generation Formula E cars.
Following the conclusion of his FIA Formula 2 campaign at the end of the 2023 season, Arthur Leclerc transitioned into a new role as a development driver for Scuderia Ferrari. He also took part in a free practice session (FP1) at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi at the close of the 2023 Formula 1 season. In 2024, Arthur Leclerc has been competing in the GT World Challenge Europe, further expanding his experience in various racing categories.
Despite his current commitments in GT racing, the Monegasque driver remains eager to explore opportunities in Formula E and sees the upcoming test with Maserati MSG Racing as a key chance to make a strong impression.
“It’s great to be back in Formula E, especially with my home team,” stated Arthur Leclerc. “This will be my first time driving the Gen3 Evo car, and I’m really curious to discover how it has evolved compared to the previous generation I tested a few years ago. I want to thank Maserati MSG Racing for this opportunity and I’m excited to begin working with the team in Berlin.”
Leclerc’s and Pourchaire’s presence in Berlin underlines Maserati’s ongoing investment in young talent and its strategic approach to future-proofing the team ahead of the 2026 regulations. The rookie test will provide both drivers with invaluable experience behind the wheel of the latest electric racing technology, as well as offer the team a closer look at potential future line-up options.
Leave a Reply