As Formula E charges into its new season, Zane Maloney, the 21-year-old Sauber Formula 1 junior from Barbados, stands as the series’ lone true rookie—a bold ambassador for the next wave of talent exploring alternative motorsport paths. Maloney’s decision to step off the Formula 1 ladder to join the unproven Lola Yamaha Abt project signals a generational shift, as drivers weigh the promise of Formula E against the allure of F1.
A Career-Defining Gamble
Maloney’s leap to Formula E meant skipping the Formula 2 finale in Abu Dhabi, where he still had a long-shot chance at the 2024 championship. Ultimately, a mediocre performance in Qatar dashed those hopes, but the decision to commit to Formula E’s season opener in São Paulo underscores his conviction.
“To not be able to finish [the F2 season] is a bit disappointing,” Maloney admits. “But on the other hand, I’m very excited for this new project, and the excitement outweighs the disappointment.”
This move is especially daring given the nascent state of Lola Yamaha’s Formula E team, which faces the dual challenge of establishing itself and navigating the unique demands of electric racing.
Diving Into the Unknown
Formula E’s fast-paced, energy-focused racing is a far cry from the fuel-burning, high-speed drama of Formula 2. Yet Maloney approaches the transition with remarkable poise.
“Everything’s different,” he says. “When I go to F2, I forget everything about Formula E. When I go to Formula E, I forget everything about F2. It’s a completely different way of driving, managing tyres, and managing the car.”
Despite the steep learning curve, Maloney’s early performance in pre-season testing at Jarama impressed. He clocked the fastest lap for Lola Yamaha Abt, edging past his teammate and 2016-17 Formula E champion Lucas di Grassi by 0.4 seconds.
The team has praised Maloney’s mature approach and technical feedback, describing it as “excellent” and a reflection of his potential to thrive in the electric racing series.
Mentorship Meets Raw Talent
Maloney credits much of his smooth adaptation to di Grassi’s mentorship. While the Brazilian brings a wealth of experience to the table, Maloney balances that with fresh insights and youthful enthusiasm.
“Lucas has been in Formula E a long time. He knows what’s going on in this world of racing,” Maloney notes. “I’m learning a lot from him, but I’m also bringing my own inputs from the categories I’ve driven. It’s about striking a balance.”
This dynamic between mentor and protégé reflects the broader evolution of Formula E as it increasingly turns to young talent to usher in its Gen4 era.
A Trailblazer for the Next Generation
Maloney’s move to Formula E isn’t just a personal gamble; it’s a litmus test for junior single-seater drivers evaluating career options beyond F1. His choice echoes the pioneering moves of veterans like Sebastien Buemi and Lucas di Grassi, who legitimized Formula E as a credible F1 alternative in its inaugural seasons.
“I don’t feel pressure,” Maloney asserts. “I put pressure on myself no matter what I do. So, from that aspect, nothing really changes other than I’ll be driving a Formula E car.
As Formula E teams look to rejuvenate their lineups in the Gen4 era, Maloney’s success—or struggles—will influence a new generation of drivers. For now, his focus remains firmly on the present: adapting, learning, and proving that bold career choices can yield great rewards.
The Road Ahead
With the São Paulo opener fast approaching, Maloney’s Formula E journey begins in earnest. A strong debut could cement his place as a cornerstone of Lola Yamaha’s ambitions and validate Formula E as the next great proving ground for rising stars.
For Maloney, it’s not just about filling the grid—it’s about lighting the way for future talents daring to step off the conventional F1 ladder.
