Flörsch joins Opel Formula E as test and development driver

Opel has announced the first driver signing for its new Formula E team, with Sophia Flörsch joining as its test and development driver.

The 25-year-old German has experience in Formula 3, DTM and LMP2 racing in the European Le Mans Series and Le Mans 24 Hours, and also competed in one Indy NXT race for HMD Motorsports last year.

“Formula E is currently the toughest racing series in the world – and that's exactly where Opel and I are now competing together,” she said. “The fact that a brand with 125 years of motorsport DNA is now taking the step into a world championship is impressive.

“As a German driver, being part of this factory team is more than a privilege for me. I can't wait to go into depth with the engineers, understand this car and get the maximum out of it. Together, we want to show what true teamwork can do – achieve sporting success and win the hearts of motorsport fans for Opel and Formula E.”

In her new role, Flörsch will complete simulator and development work as the Opel GSE Formula E team gears up for its maiden Formula E campaign, as well as take part in on-track rookie test and practice sessions with the team.

“With Sophia's signing, we at Opel are sending a clear signal for the consistent promotion of young talents in electric motorsport,” said team principal Jörg Schrott. "Her precise technical feedback as well as her analytical way of working in the simulator and on the track will play an essential role in the further development of our GEN4 package.

“At the same time, her fresh approach fits perfectly with our OMG! GSE campaign, with which we present the emotional side of our all-electric high-performance models. We combine targeted talent promotion with high sporting standards and thus strengthen the visibility of a new generation in motorsport that combines sporting performance with public presence.”

Flörsch will make her first appearance for Opel on April 21-22, when teams will formally present their new GEN4 cars at an event at Circuit Paul Ricard in France. She will drive at the event, having already completed her first runs in Opel’s simulator in Rüsselsheim, Germany.