Lola Formula E has confirmed Robert Shwartzman as its first driver for the GEN4 era of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, with the former Formula 3 champion set to make his full-time debut in the all-electric series in 2027.
The 26-year-old joins the British manufacturer ahead of a significant regulatory change for Formula E, bringing experience across junior single-seaters, Formula 1, endurance racing and IndyCar.
Shwartzman will also compete in the 2027 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), undertaking a demanding double programme after spending 2026 away from competitive racing.
His arrival marks an important step for Lola as it prepares for its first season with the GEN4 machinery, developed alongside technical partner Yamaha.
Shwartzman brings extensive international experience
Despite entering Formula E as a rookie, Shwartzman has already established an impressive record across several categories.
He claimed the 2019 FIA Formula 3 Championship with three victories and ten podium finishes before progressing to Formula 2, where he finished runner-up in the 2021 championship.
The former Ferrari junior driver also gained valuable experience through Formula 1 reserve and development duties, further expanding his technical knowledge.
Shwartzman subsequently moved into endurance racing, securing his first WEC victory at the 2024 Lone Star Le Mans event.
His versatility became even more apparent in 2025 when he claimed pole position for the Indianapolis 500 on his first attempt with PREMA Racing. The result made him the first rookie to secure pole for the prestigious race since Teo Fabi in 1983. indycar.com
Although Shwartzman has not previously contested a Formula E race, he has participated in rookie tests and free practice sessions, providing him with some familiarity with the championship.
Shwartzman excited for new challenge with Lola
Shwartzman has already started working with Lola and Yamaha during testing of the new Lola T004, gaining valuable experience of the GEN4 machinery before his competitive debut.
The driver expressed his excitement about returning to racing after a year away, particularly with the opportunity to compete in two international championships.
“I’m very excited to join the Formula E grid and start this new chapter of my career with Lola. Formula E is such a competitive, unique championship and one I’ve wanted to race in for a long time. Balancing my commitments between WEC and Formula E is going to make for a demanding, non-stop season but honestly, after not racing in 2026, I missed it so much. Being back to doing what I love most, especially with a double campaign across two world class programmes is an incredible feeling. I’m really grateful to everyone who worked behind the scenes to give me this opportunity.”
“What makes joining this project so special is working with a legendary name like Lola as we enter the GEN4 era. The GEN4 car is an absolute beast and so much fun to drive, I really can’t wait to start the season and push it to the limit on what looks like a fantastic calendar”.
Lola and Yamaha prepare for the GEN4 era
Shwartzman’s arrival comes as Formula E prepares for one of the biggest technical changes in its history.
The GEN4 regulations introduce a substantial increase in performance, with the new cars capable of delivering 450kW in standard race mode and up to 600kW during qualifying and ATTACK MODE. That represents a significant increase over the previous GEN3 Evo generation.
Lola has continued its technical partnership with Yamaha, which plays a central role in developing the powertrain for the 2026/27 season.
The two manufacturers extended their collaboration in April 2025, with both parties emphasising the importance of improving efficiency, performance and future electric vehicle technology.
The new season also marks a change in Lola’s operations. The team will compete under the Lola Formula E Team name after bringing its racing operations in-house, while Yamaha remains its technical partner.
Shwartzman’s involvement in testing will therefore be particularly valuable as Lola continues refining its package ahead of the championship’s next generation.
Preston praises Shwartzman’s adaptability
Lola Formula E Team Principal Mark Preston believes Shwartzman’s experience across different racing categories makes him a strong addition to the team’s GEN4 programme.
Although the driver faces a learning curve against established Formula E competitors, Preston highlighted his adaptability and early contribution to development work.
“Robert’s results and experience speak for themselves, and we are so pleased to be welcoming him to Lola Formula E. While he enters the series as a rookie facing a genuine learning curve against established grid veterans, his proven ability to adapt quickly across different categories makes him a highly promising prospect for the GEN4 era. He has already shown strong potential behind the wheel and has integrated well into the team, providing invaluable feedback as we prepare for the 2027 Season.”
A fresh chapter for Lola Formula E
Shwartzman’s signing represents a significant step in Lola’s preparations for the new season.
The team enters the GEN4 era after a challenging 2025/26 campaign, during which it finished tenth in the Teams’ Championship with 35 points. However, Lucas di Grassi delivered a memorable victory at the Shanghai E-Prix, demonstrating the team’s potential. ABB FIA Formula E World Championship
With di Grassi retiring from racing and Zane Maloney moving to Nissan, Lola faces a fresh start with a revised driver line-up. Shwartzman’s appointment fills the first of the team’s two seats. ABB FIA Formula E World Championship
The 2026/27 Formula E season is scheduled to begin in Jeddah on 18 December 2026, with the championship entering its first year under the GEN4 regulations. ABB FIA Formula E World Championship
For Shwartzman, the move offers an opportunity to establish himself in another major international championship while continuing his endurance racing career. For Lola, it brings an adaptable and accomplished driver into a project entering a crucial stage of development.
