Envision Racing's Zak O'Sullivan Dominates 2026 Miami Rookie Free Practice Session
In an impressive display of skill and preparation, Envision Racing driver Zak O'Sullivan emerged as the fastest rookie during the special Formula E practice session held in Miami on Friday. The young British talent, who serves as the team's simulator driver, showcased his prowess by setting the benchmark time in the FP0 test session at the newly inaugurated Miami International Autodrome.
Special Opportunity for Formula E Rookies
Under a unique schedule arrangement, rookie drivers were granted exclusive access to the advanced GEN3 Evo cars ahead of Saturday's main event. This 40-minute session provided these emerging talents with invaluable real-world experience behind the wheel of Formula E's latest racing machines while allowing teams to collect essential track data.
The Miami International Autodrome represents a significant addition to the Formula E calendar as the 39th circuit to host these electric racing events. Measuring 2.32 kilometers in length, this new venue presented fresh challenges for both drivers and teams.
Comprehensive Results from the Rookie Session
The Miami Rookie Free Practice delivered exciting competition among the next generation of Formula E stars:
- Zak O'Sullivan (Envision Racing) - 55.810 seconds
- Théo Pourchaire (Citroen Racing) - 58.800 seconds
- Gabriele Mini (Nissan) - Third position
- Pepe Marti (Cupra Kiro) - Fourth position
- Nikita Bedrin (DS Penske) - Fifth position
Notably, Pepe Marti stood out as the only full-time Formula E driver participating in this rookie session, maintaining his rookie status since he has not yet completed an entire Formula E season.
Driver Perspectives and Team Preparations
Speaking to FormulaE.com before the session, O'Sullivan expressed his enthusiasm about returning to drive for Envision Racing in Miami. "I'm excited to be driving for Envision Racing again, this time in Miami," he stated. "I've really enjoyed the Formula E testing I've done so far, and I'll be working closely with the team to ensure they head into the race weekend in the strongest possible position."
This additional practice session formed part of the special schedule designed specifically for rookie drivers before the regular Formula E program commenced. Following two practice sessions, qualifying is scheduled for 9:40 a.m. local time (8:10 p.m. IST) on Saturday, with the final race set to begin at 2:05 p.m. local time (12:05 a.m. IST on February 1).
The Miami Rookie Free Practice successfully provided young drivers with crucial track time while enabling teams to fine-tune their strategies and car setups ahead of the competitive weekend ahead.
