Formula E teams win battle with FIA: no free practice with rookies

As in Formula 1, the FIA has got the anger from teams in Formula E too. In the electric class, the issue was not about possible additions of new teams or the possible sale of the series, but about the introduction of the rookie rule. It is now clear that the FIA is on the losing end.

Before the season, the FIA decided that Formula E teams were obliged to put a rookie in the car during two practice sessions before an ePrix. In Formula 1, by the way, this rule is common. Big difference with Formula 1, however, is that in the electric class there are fewer free practice sessions, only two before the race. Moreover, these last only 30 minutes each.

In a season when Formula E introduced third-generation cars, it would mean that drivers would have to settle for at least one thirty-minute free practice session to get to know the track with the changed car. Then they would already have to start qualifying. The motorsport federation's plan immediately led to dissatisfaction in the paddock.

After lengthy talks, the FIA is now backtracking on the idea, reports the website e-Formel.de. Instead of two free practice sessions with rookies, there will be a special training session with only drivers who have never raced in this class. This session will be completed in Rome later this year, alongside the two 'regular' free practice sessions for regular drivers. There will also be a special test day for rookies on the Monday after the ePrix in Berlin.