Just a few days ago, Porsche announced that the 22-year-old David Beckmann is the new test and reserve driver in the TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team. Today we can tell you that Simona De Silvestro will return as a test and reserve driver next season. Beckmann’s colleague Simona De Silvestro joined Porsche in 2019 and will continue as a test and reserve driver in season 9 of the world’s first electric racing series. Throughout her career, the Swiss driver has competed in numerous international racing series. After claiming her first single-seater successes in Europe, she moved to the USA at the age of 18, where she ended up in the IndyCar Series via Formula BMW and Formula Toyota Atlantic.
Indy 500 Rookie of the Year at 2010 Indy 500
De Silvestro was named Rookie of the Year at the legendary Indy 500 in 2010. She earned even more recognition from drivers and fans the following year when she climbed back into the car in Indianapolis just one day after a serious accident during practice and managed to qualify, despite burns on both hands. After this courageous performance, the Americans, who had previously referred to her as the friendly “Swiss Miss,” gave her a new nickname “Iron Maiden” in reference to the famous heavy metal rockers.
Simona De Silvestro has also contested Formula E, driving for Michael Andretti’s team in the innovative electric racing series in the 2015/2016 season. In 2014, she was part of Sauber’s Formula 1 squad.
Edited Porsche Factory Press Release
pictures courtesy Porsche AG
