In modern motorsport, adaptability often separates good drivers from great ones. As racing series evolve and technology becomes increasingly complex, young talents must seize every opportunity to expand their skill sets. For Joshua Dürksen, currently racing in F2 with Invicta Racing, his recent outing in a Formula E Rookie Test in Madrid offered exactly that: a chance to explore new machinery, understand advanced systems, and maintain momentum during a break in the Formula 2 calendar. While the session may not directly impact championship standings, its long-term value could prove significant. In a virtual media roundtable attended by Pit Debrief ahead of the 2026 Miami GP, Dürksen discussed his experience in Jarama with Citroën Racing.
Dürksen on making the most of every opportunity
Joshua Dürksen approached the Formula E test with curiosity and intent, recognising it as a chance to expand his experience rather than a distraction from his primary commitments.
“Yeah, for sure. It was a very good and nice opportunity. I was curious to know how a Formula E [car] drives.”
By stepping into a fundamentally different car, he encountered new challenges, from energy management to regenerative braking and a distinct driving style. While these lessons support his long-term development, the test also delivered an immediate benefit.
In a calendar shaped by intense bursts of racing and occasional gaps, maintaining sharpness becomes essential. Dürksen underlined the importance of maximising any available track time, particularly during longer breaks such as the gap between Melbourne and Miami.
“And it was really nice because, of course, with this longer break, to get some running, any kind of running is always very, very valuable.”
Consistent running helps drivers retain rhythm, refine technique, and stay mentally focused. Even in different machinery, core skills remain transferable. As a result, the Formula E outing allowed Dürksen to stay race-ready and avoid losing momentum during the pause in his F2 campaign.
Dürksen on learning from advanced Formula E technology and developing transferable skills for F2 and beyond
One of the most striking elements of Formula E for Joshua Dürksen was its technological depth. The series centres on energy efficiency, software control, and battery optimisation—areas that are rapidly becoming fundamental across modern motorsport.
“And especially with Formula E, with the technology they have, it really amazed me a lot. And I think I can just learn so many stuff from there, which I could apply in different areas. You know, also some stuff maybe in F2, for sure. Maybe some stuff now with the new regs in Formula 1, you know, with a lot more where we are a lot more dependent on the battery.”
As a result, the experience offers more than additional track time. With championships like Formula 1 placing increasing emphasis on hybrid systems and energy deployment, this knowledge becomes directly relevant.
Crucially, Dürksen views the lessons as transferable. Concepts such as energy management, system control, and race awareness can strengthen his performance in Formula 2. Moreover, adapting to a different driving style sharpens versatility, enabling quicker adjustments to varying race scenarios. Consequently, even a short Formula E outing can deliver lasting performance gains.
A fully positive experience
Reflecting on the test overall, Dürksen expressed clear satisfaction with what he gained from the experience. From valuable seat time to technical learning, every aspect contributed positively to his development.
“So it was really, really positive and interesting experience. And there was just positives for me. You know, I get some running, I get to drive a new car, I get to learn a lot of stuff and I get to stay on rhythm.”
Dürksen’s Formula E Rookie Test highlights the growing importance of versatility in motorsport. By embracing new technologies and adapting to different racing environments, he continues to build a comprehensive skill set that extends beyond F2.
Thus, as racing continues to evolve, experiences like these could play a crucial role in shaping his future, whether in Formula 2, Formula 1, or beyond.
