NEOM McLaren signs up Bird, completes Formula E line-up

©McLaren

NEOM McLaren has completed its 2024 line-up for Season 10 of the FIA Formula E Championship, with Sam Bird joining fellow Brit Jake Hughes at the Woking-based outfit.

Bird, who lost his seat with Jaguar TCS Racing at the end of this season, replaces René Rast and the 36-year-old is a welcome addition to the team given not only his speed but also his vast experience, having competed in all nine of Formula E's seasons.

While he did not win any races with Jaguar in 2023, Bird did claim four podiums.

"I'm super excited to get going with the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team," he commented in the wake of his arrival at McLaren.

"Becoming part of a team with so much heritage and prestige as the McLaren Racing family feels special.

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"We know there is some work to do ahead of Season 10, to ensure we get to where we want to be, which is at the front of the Formula E pack.

"It feels great to be part of the team and I can't wait to kick off the season preparations, I'm super motivated and driven to deliver success with the team in Season 10."

McLaren endured a difficult campaign in FE's maiden Gen3 season, its car lacking energy efficiency in race trim, a deficit that allowed the team to score but a single podium in 2023, courtesy of Rast in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia.

Bird's experience and talent will no doubt come in handy next year and help the team improve on its disappointing P8 result in this year's Constructors' Championship.

"Sam is a proven force in Formula E, as well as other categories of racing, and his experience and determination will fuel the team ahead of an exciting season to come," said Neom McLaren team boss Ian James.

"As soon as the deal was done, his first question to me was when he could come into the office to start the preparations for Season 10 - this clearly shows his hunger and commitment to making Season 10 a success for the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team.

"Having both Sam and Jake on board has already instilled confidence in the team."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.