August 3, 2025

Taylor Barnard, a rising star in the Formula E circuit, has concluded his time with NEOM McLaren at the end of Season 11. The young driver took to Instagram to express his heartfelt gratitude towards his team, sharing insights into his first full season. Having ranked consistently in the top spots, Barnard secured a commendable fourth place in the highly competitive 2025 Formula E World Championship. This was a notable achievement for the rookie driver, as he made his mark in the fast-paced world of electric vehicle racing. Initially starting as a Reserve and Development Driver for NEOM McLaren, Barnard's journey over the past year and a half has been nothing short of remarkable. "What an incredible journey the past year and a half has been at NEOM @mclarenfe. From starting as Reserve and Development Driver to earning a full-time race seat, every step has been unforgettable. It’s been a privilege to represent the McLaren name," he shared in his Instagram post. The 2025 season was filled with challenges and learning experiences for Barnard. He managed to hold onto a third-place standing in the driver’s rankings for a significant part of the season. However, the competitive nature of Formula E meant he eventually dropped to fourth as other drivers, like Nick Cassidy, made their mark. Despite this, his performance shone through, with five podium finishes. These included notable races in Sao Paulo, Shanghai, Tokyo, and a strong presence during the Jeddah double header. Barnard ended the season boasting a total of 112 points, an impressive tally for a rookie, and firmly established himself as a talented competitor in the sport. Reflecting on his experiences, Barnard thanked his entire team for their unwavering faith in his abilities. He stated, "To the entire team, thank you for the faith you placed in me. Your hard work, support, and belief have driven me forward, and it’s been a privilege to be part of such a dedicated and passionate group of people." This acknowledgment underlines the importance of teamwork and support in high-stakes environments like Formula E. The now-former NEOM McLaren driver also specifically recognized the contributions of his teammate, Sam Bird. As a veteran in the sport, Bird provided Barnard with invaluable insights and support throughout his rookie year. "@sambird_official, your experience, advice, and support throughout my rookie season have made a lasting impact, both professionally and personally — I’ll always be grateful," Barnard noted, showcasing the bonds formed within the team. Moreover, Barnard expressed gratitude to team principal Ian James, who has been instrumental in his career trajectory. He stated, "@ianjames, thank you for backing me from day one and giving me the chance to prove myself. I’m really proud of everything we’ve built together this year." Such gratitude speaks volumes about the mentorship and leadership that contributes to the success of athletes in high-performance sports. Finally, Barnard extended his appreciation to the fans, acknowledging the importance of their support throughout the season. "To the Papaya fans, your energy, loyalty, and encouragement have meant everything. I’ve felt your support at every race, and it never goes unnoticed. You’re one of a kind. Thank you for everything, team." This interaction with fans highlights how integral their support is, pushing athletes to strive for excellence every race. As the path forward remains uncertain for Barnard and teammate Sam Bird as they approach Formula E Season 12, what remains clear is Barnard’s potential and the solid foundation of his rookie season. Testing for the new season is set to begin in October, and fans eagerly await updates on where the talented driver will land next in the ever-evolving world of Formula E.

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Tags: Taylor barnard, Formula e, Neom mclaren,