Taylor Barnard made Formula E history at ExCeL London on Sunday, becoming the youngest race winner in the championship’s history after claiming his maiden victory in the final race of the GEN3 era.
The 22-year-old DS PENSKE driver came out on top in a dramatic Round 17 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, beating Mahindra Racing pair Nyck de Vries and Edoardo Mortara to the chequered flag.
Barnard had already established himself as one of Formula E’s brightest young talents, previously becoming the championship’s youngest-ever starter, points scorer, podium finisher and polesitter. Victory in London added the biggest milestone yet to that growing list of records.
Starting fifth, the Brit remained in contention as the race developed around the championship battle and the different ATTACK MODE strategies being played out across the field.
Mahindra looked well placed for victory after locking out the front row in qualifying, with de Vries starting from pole alongside Mortara.
But Barnard remained within striking distance and made his move late in the race, finding his way past Mortara before overcoming de Vries to take the lead.
From there, he held on to secure his first Formula E victory in what was also the final race for DS Automobiles in the championship.
The result brought a memorable conclusion to Barnard’s first season with DS PENSKE, having joined the team following his impressive rookie campaign with NEOM McLaren.
It also ensured that the final race of Formula E’s GEN3 era belonged to one of the championship’s youngest stars.
The London finale marked the end of more than just a generation of Formula E machinery. It was also the championship’s final race at ExCeL London before the British round moves to Brands Hatch next season for the beginning of the GEN4 era.
For Barnard, however, the final chapter of GEN3 became the opening chapter of another story, as the young Brit finally converted his growing reputation into a first Formula E victory.
