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Vandoorne joins Formula E with HWA Racelab

Stoffel Vandoorne will join the ABB Formula E grid in season five after signing for the incoming HWA Racelab team.

Vandoorne will make his debut in the all-electric series following his departure from the McLaren Formula 1 team, partnered by newly-crowned DTM champion Gary Paffett.

“I am honoured that HWA have signed me for their Formula E programme,” said the Belgian. “HWA are such a great team with a long and successful history in motorsport. All the people I’ve met so far are really passionate about racing.

“Also, it’s great to work alongside such an experienced driver as Gary Paffett. I am pretty sure that we will benefit from each other during the season.”

Despite a highly-impressive junior record which saw him claim the GP2 in 2015 and score a point on his Formula 1 debut, Vandoorne anticipates the challenge at hand but hopes to be competitive early on.

“Although we are all newbies to the series, I have no doubt that we will have a steep learning curve.

“It won’t be easy. My objective is, therefore, to become competitive in the series as soon as possible and to make a good impression.”

Vandoorne was welcomed to the team by Ulrich Fritz, CEO of HWA AG, who praised the talent of the Belgian and is confident that both Vandoorne and Paffett will prove to be a potent driver pairing.

“Stoffel has demonstrated his talent and his speed not only in Formula 1, but also in the 2015 GP2 which he won by a wide margin,” said Fritz.

“In Stoffel and Gary, we have two Formula E rookies on our team, which in any case is making its own debut in the electric series… we all have a lot to learn together.

“However, Gary and are Stoffel outstanding racing drivers who have a wealth of experience gained in Formula 1 and in the DTM…both know how to work in collaboration with the engineers to develop and fine-tune a new racing car.

“These are precisely the sort of strengths that will count for a lot in our first Formula E campaign. It gives me confidence that we and our two drivers are well prepared for the challenges ahead.”

Only three seats remain on the grid for season five, with Dragon Racing yet to announce a team-mate for Jose Maria Lopez while Mahindra Racing hasn’t yet confirmed either driver.

About Topher Smith
Topher is an experienced and passionate Motorsport journalist with Formula E, Formula 1, GP2/F2, GP3 and IndyCar all on his resume. When he isn't at the trackside you can find him furthering his own capabilities and knowledge through his endless search for original ideas and material. Also plays league pool.