The new Fortescue Zero Racing squad, that took over the licence and some of the assets of the DS Penske team, has revealed its team, car and livery ahead of the first GEN4 season which is set to start in January.
The team is set to shake its cars down at Mallory Park next week before heading to Spain where Dan Ticktum will be joined by an as yet unnamed teammate. Despite Taylor Barnard having been announced and nominated as a driver, Formula E Notebook learned last week that a contractual wrangle between the former McLaren and DS Penske driver and the Fortescue Zero team is set end their relationship.
That could open the door for a return to Formula E for one of former Envision teammates Joel Eriksson or Sebastien Buemi, are Formula E rookies Paul Aron or Victor Martins who are both available for 2027.
The team also unveiled its predominantly green livery for its rookie season in what it described as its ‘trademark electric green and black. The livery carries more than just racing colours, hidden across its design are nods to where Fortescue Zero Racing has come from, what it believes in and where its heading.’
The scheme includes ‘topography from what will be Fortescue’s first green mine in the Pilbara, nods to founders Dr Andrew Forrest AO and Sir Frank Williams, and subtle references to the team’s values and Never Ever Give Up spirit.
Team Principal Jim Wright commented that “we’re not here to blend in. We’re here to build a team that competes, does things differently and earns its place on the grid.”
“This is the world’s first look at who we are. But the real work is well underway, to be ready, push hard and deliver as a team when we begin running on-circuit next week.”
“Launching a new racing outfit is a significant challenge, and that’s exactly what makes it exciting. We have strong foundations, an experienced, talented and highly motivated group and we’re ready to compete.”
Re-watch the launch below:
Driver Dan Ticktum said, “It’s exciting to be part of building a new team from the ground up, which is something I’ve already experience doing.”
“I’m really grateful for the opportunity to be part of this and I’m looking forward to getting started.”
“There’s a lot of hard work going on behind the scenes and everyone’s pushing to make sure we’re in the best possible position when we get on track.”
Fortescue Growth and Energy CEO Gus Pichot, a former captain of the Argentina Rugby Union team, added: “I know what it takes to compete in big sporting moments and Fortescue Zero Racing has all the making of a stellar team.”
“We’re setting the bar high, backing ourselves and we intend to perform to win.”
“From developing technology behind the scenes in electric racing to taking our place on the grid, racing has always been part of our DNA. Now, we’re putting our name on the car and our skills to the test and what we learn on track will help us to develop smarter batteries, faster charging and more efficient electric technologies for the real world.”
