Cupra Kiro expects to finalize its driver lineup within weeks, with Russell O’Hagan confirming Dan Ticktum remains a leading contender for the second seat despite a Lola Yamaha test.

Ticktum completed a two-day private run at Guadix in Lola Yamaha’s Gen4 mule, his first outing beyond Cupra Kiro, formerly ERT/NIO 333, while exploring 2026–27 options elsewhere.

Pepe Marti is already confirmed, renewing in September after an assured rookie season highlighted by podiums in Monaco and Sanya, giving the team a stable reference point.

The decision arrives as Formula E’s new Gen4 era begins, bringing permanent all-wheel drive, a 600kW peak, added mass, and expanded qualifying points that reward outright pace.

That emphasis suits Ticktum’s one‑lap speed, yet O’Hagan stresses fit over reputation after Bridgestone’s Rome tire launch, confirming two or three alternative candidates remain under evaluation.

His approach mirrors insights from a Formula E veteran principal about aligning driver profiles to regulation shifts.

Cupra Kiro weighs experience against youth, shortlisting Formula 2 rookies while acknowledging Formula E’s steep learning curve. A rules reset can narrow gaps, softening the penalty on debutants.

The rebranded outfit’s direction matters in a crowded field, with recent moves such as Mahindra’s pairing underscoring the value of early clarity as teams refine Gen4 programs.

With qualifying now carrying greater reward, teams may prioritize drivers who blend launch-phase efficiency with peak-lap execution. Ticktum’s profile aligns, but adaptability and energy management remain decisive.

O’Hagan targets a call within two to three weeks. Whether Cupra Kiro opts for Ticktum or a newcomer, that choice will frame its Gen4 push in an evolving Formula E landscape.

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Zane Muniz

Zane Muniz writes across NASCAR, IndyCar, F1, IMSA, NHRA, and dirt-racing news. His breaking-news alerts and event previews ensure motorsport fans never miss a lap, drift, or drag-strip showdown.