Formula E News: Stoffel Vandoorne To Leave DS Penske Team At Season End

Alex Harrington | Jul 26, 2024

Jun 24, 2023; Portland, Oregon, USA; DS Penske driver Stoffel Vandoorne (1) rounds a turn during the practice session at the 2023 Portland E-Prix at Portland International Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Al Sermeno-USA TODAY Sports / Al Sermeno-USA TODAY Sports

Stoffel Vandoorne has confirmed his departure from the DS Penske team, effective at the end of this racing season. This announcement, initially surrounded by rumors, puts an end to Vandoorne's two-season tenure with the American outfit after his switch from Mercedes-EQ.

Vandoorne, the Formula E Season 8 world champion, made notable contributions during his time with DS Penske, including a pole position in São Paulo last year and a podium finish in Monaco this season. Despite these highlights, his performance this season didn't consistently match his 2022 championship-winning form. He wraps up the season 10th in the drivers' championship with 61 points, a score that significantly contributed to the team's success.

Under Vandoorne’s tenure, DS Penske showed marked improvement, finishing third in the teams' standings in the latest season and scoring 37 points more than the previous season.

"My journey with DS Penske has been an incredible experience," expressed Vandoorne. "I am thankful to the team for their unwavering support and look forward to new challenges ahead."

Looking ahead, Vandoorne is expected to remain within the Formula E circuit. There is strong speculation about him staying within the Stellantis group, potentially moving to the Maserati customer team in a seat swap with Maximilian Günther.

Team Principal Jay Penske lauded Vandoorne’s contribution to the team:

"We are truly grateful to Stoffel for his commitment and the outstanding performances he has delivered for DS Penske. We wish him the very best in his future endeavors."

Vandoorne's path in Formula E has been closely followed, and his transition is likely to keep fans and analysts keenly interested in the impacts of his move.