“I’m Extremely Proud and Honoured” NEOM McLaren’s Taylor Barnard Talks Formula E

NEOM McLaren made a statement in the opening race of the Season 11 Formula E Championship. Sitting top of the Championship following the opening race in Brazil. Leading the charge is rookie racer Taylor Barnard who battled his way to a fantastic 3rd place podium finish in Brazil.

As we head into race two this weekend in Mexico City, we caught up with Taylor Barnard to get his thoughts on Formula E and the opening race of the season.

Read more: How to watch the Mexico City E-Prix

Taylor Barnard Interview

This will be your first official full season of Formula E. What are you looking forward to the most?

“Not anything specific, really. I mean, just being a part of the team, being a full time race driver for season 11 is already something quite exciting. Obviously, the first race was great finishing on the podium, which is even more exciting. And, I’m looking forward to every race this season.”

You’re coming to Mexico off the back of an amazing performance in Brazil that saw you start 17th on the grid and claim your first podium. How happy were you with your performance?

“At the time, it was pretty surreal, honestly. Now it has sunk in a little bit over Christmas. I don’t really know how to describe it. I’m extremely proud and honoured. And to see all the teams standing at the bottom of the podium is an image I won’t forget for a long time.”

Off the back of the McLaren Formula 1 team winning the championship and NEOM McLaren currently leading the Formula E standings, can you and Sam make it a McLaren double?

“Absolutely.”

Prior to you competing in in Formula E, we saw you in Formula 3 and Formula 2. Why did you choose Formula E?

“I think in the career path that I’ve had coming through Formula 3 and Formula 2, it just made the most sense. And, obviously, being the reserve driver last season for NEOM McLaren, the opportunity was there to step up. I felt like I was very happy with the environment in terms of the team. I was very happy with the championship and obviously being part in a couple of races stepping in for Sam as well. So I knew what I was getting myself into. I just really like the championship, the team, the people, and even the paddock environment. I really enjoy it.”

What is the biggest difference between Formula E and other forms of motorsport you’ve raced in?

“I can only really compare with Formula 3 and Formula 2, to be honest. And it’s polar opposite. Like, Formula 3 and Formula 2, they’re most of the time just racing as fast as possible. Where as Formula E, it’s trying to go as fast as possible while going as slow as possible. You have to save a lot of energy. There’s so many more engineers that you need to work with. The information is double if not triple. So it’s just in terms of workload for a race driver, it’s much more difficult, but much more enjoyable.”

Formula E is growing in popularity largely due to the exciting races and competitiveness. Are we finally seeing Formula E make the next step in competing with the F1 and IndyCar fan base?

“Of course, I know the history of Formula E a little bit, but I’m very new to it. I’ve seen that it’s on the rise, and I hope it continues to be that way. Formula 1, in terms of a global championship and entertainment aspect, it’s very, very big. To catch up to that would be hard, but, I see Formula E growing to to something very big. So let’s see how it goes. But I think the championship are doing a great job.”

What are you hoping to achieve this season?

“Well, of course, I’ve already scored a podium. I would love to score a win at some point this season. And, ultimately, to fight for the championship in my rookie season would be very, very difficult. But this is the goal.”

And finally, what advice would you give to any young fan looking to get into Formula E?

“Honestly, the main one is just don’t give up. I definitely have not had the budget and all of the extras to try to get to where I am. I think it was hard work and determination which has got me here. And that’s definitely a key for a young driver starting.”

We would like to thank Taylor Barnard and NEOM McLaren for finding time in their busy schedule.

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