The excitement for the Miami E-Prix is building as the countdown begins. A special Rookie Free Practice session is scheduled for the day before the race weekend. DS Penske has now confirmed that Formula 3 driver Nikita Bedrin will get his hands on the powerful GEN3 Evo car during this session.
Bedrin's Second Formula E Opportunity
This marks Nikita Bedrin's second experience with a Formula E car. The young driver previously tested the GEN3 machinery during the Berlin Rookie Test last year. DS Penske is giving him this valuable chance to showcase his skills on the Miami track.
Official Announcements and Fan Reactions
Formula E officially confirmed Nikita Bedrin's participation on their social media platform X. DS Penske made the first announcement, posting excitedly: "We're excited to announce that @nikitabedrin1_ will take on Rookie Driver duties for FP0 at the Miami E-Prix."
Formula E's Instagram account reacted to the news by saying they were "buzzing." Fans quickly shared their support across social media. One comment read, "Always proud," while another wished him, "Good luck Nikita." A particularly optimistic fan even called him a "champion of the future."
Who Is Nikita Bedrin?
Nikita Bedrin is a 20-year-old racing driver who competes under the Italian flag in international motorsport. He is part of the DS Penske Driver Development Program in Formula E. Until recently, Bedrin raced in the FIA Formula 3 Championship with Jenzer Motorsport and AIX Racing, driving car number 28.
He has since joined VRD Racing to compete in the GB3 Championship. Bedrin announced this move on Instagram in December, stating: "I'm really excited to be joining VRD Racing for the 2026 GB3 Championship. After some very positive testing where we showed strong pace in both wet and dry conditions, it's clear that we have a strong foundation to build on heading into the season, and I feel confident in our potential together."
Last year, Bedrin also competed in the Formula Regional European Championship with Sainteloc Racing. Racing under the Italian flag, he impressed many with his consistent performances throughout the season.
Miami Rookie Free Practice Details
The Miami Rookie Free Practice session is scheduled for January 30. This session will give several young drivers the chance to get familiar with the GEN3 Evo cars on the actual race track. Alongside Bedrin, DTM champion Ayhancan Guven has been selected to drive for Porsche during the same session.
This practice serves a dual purpose. It allows young racers to experience Formula E machinery firsthand. Simultaneously, it gives teams a valuable opportunity to assess emerging talent. Teams can identify promising drivers they might want to nurture for future seasons.
The stage is set for an exciting showcase of new talent in Miami. All eyes will be on Nikita Bedrin as he takes another step in his racing career with DS Penske.
