Madrid is set to host its first-ever Formula E race as part of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship and DS PENSKE has announced its driver lineup for the upcoming Rookie Test on Sunday, March 22nd. The team will field both seasoned Formula 1 veteran Daniil Kvyat and rising talent Nikita Bedrin, providing valuable track time for both drivers at the Circuito del Jarama.
For 20-year-classic Nikita Bedrin, the Madrid Rookie Test represents a significant opportunity to further develop his skills within the DS PENSKE Driver Development Program. This will be his third time behind the wheel of the GEN3 Evo car, following previous appearances at the 2025 Berlin Rookie Test and the 2026 Miami Rookie Free Practice session. Bedrin’s progression through the ranks highlights his potential in the all-electric racing series.
Bedrin’s racing background is diverse and successful. He’s a multiple race winner in international karting, notably dominating the 2020 WSK Super Master Series (OK) with victories in heats, qualifying, pre-finals, and finals over the final two rounds. More recently, he secured a Sprint Race victory in the 2024 FIA Formula 3 Championship, demonstrating his adaptability to higher levels of single-seater racing. Currently, Bedrin is competing in the GB3 Championship with VRD RACING for the 2026 season, aiming for a title challenge.
Joining Bedrin is Daniil Kvyat, a 31-year-old Russian driver with extensive experience in motorsport. Kvyat has competed in Formula 1 with Red Bull Racing and Scuderia Toro Rosso, showcasing his skill and adaptability at the highest level. In 2026, he will as well produce his debut in the Super GT series with JLOC (Japan Lamborghini Owners’ Club), adding another dimension to his racing career. This won’t be Kvyat’s first experience with Formula E machinery, having previously participated in Rookie Tests for both DS PENSKE and NIO 333 in Berlin.
Madrid E-Prix Schedule
The CUPRA Raval Madrid E-Prix weekend promises a full schedule of action. Free Practice 1 is scheduled for Friday, March 20th at 16:30 local time (15:30 UTC), followed by Free Practice 2 on Saturday, March 21st at 08:30 local time (07:30 UTC). Qualifying will take place on Saturday at 10:40 local time (09:40 UTC), leading up to the main race at 15:05 local time (14:05 UTC). Fans can follow the action live on the Formula E website and app, with detailed session reports, interviews, and live timing available. More details on the schedule and broadcast options can be found on the official Formula E website.
Bedrin’s participation in the Rookie Test is part of DS PENSKE’s commitment to developing young talent within the Formula E paddock. As noted by DS PENSKE, Bedrin has been a regular participant in rookie tests and free practice sessions, gaining valuable experience with the team.
Kvyat’s inclusion brings a wealth of experience to the test, offering DS PENSKE valuable insights from a driver who has competed at the pinnacle of motorsport. His transition to Super GT in 2026 demonstrates his versatility and continued ambition within the racing world. Dive-Bomb.com reports that Kvyat was also a GP3 champion in 2013.
The Madrid Rookie Test will provide both Bedrin and Kvyat with the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the Circuito del Jarama and gain valuable experience with the GEN3 Evo car. The test session will be crucial for DS PENSKE as they evaluate potential future drivers and refine their understanding of the latest Formula E technology.
Following the Rookie Test, the focus will shift to the inaugural Madrid E-Prix on Saturday, March 21st, where Spanish driver Pepe Marti will aim to impress in front of his home crowd. The event marks a significant expansion for the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, bringing electric racing to a new audience in Spain.
The Madrid Rookie Test and subsequent E-Prix represent an exciting chapter for Formula E, showcasing the series’ commitment to both developing young talent and expanding its global reach. The performance of Bedrin and Kvyat will be closely watched as they contribute to DS PENSKE’s preparations for the remainder of the 2026 season.
What are your thoughts on the driver pairings for the Madrid Rookie Test? Share your predictions and insights in the comments below!
