Tamara Molinaro replaces Kleinschmidt as XE reserve driver

With Jutta Kleinschmidt now at Abt Cupra, Molinaro becomes an XE driver alongside Timo Scheider

Tamara Molinaro

Tamara Molinaro has been announced as Extreme E’s new championship driver, replacing Jutta Kleinschmidt who will race for Cupra for the rest of the season.

Molinaro, alongside Timo Scheider, will fill in for any of the drivers should they be unable to compete in a round as individual teams are not allowed their own reserve drivers at an X-Prix.

The role was previously filled by Kleinschmidt but after deputizing at Cupra for Claudia Hürtgen for the Ocean X-Prix due to illness, it was decided that she would remain with the team.

Molinaro has a rallying background to prepare her for XE, winning the U27 Ladies European Rally Championship in 2017 and competing in WRC2 and Titans RX Rallycross Championship the next season.

More recently she’s contested the Italian Gravel Championship where she currently sits sixth in the standings.

“I have been working really hard to try and get involved in Extreme E over the past few months as I’ve followed the series with huge interest since the beginning.” Molinaro said.

Tamara Molinaro_3

“I think it is one of the most exciting and fair racing formats ever and the thought of being able to race with a purpose gives me extra motivation.

“My goal has always been to make it to the top of the motorsport ladder so the opportunity to work within Extreme E as a championship driver is a dream come true, and I will put all my efforts into doing my job in the best way possible.

“I can’t wait to get started in Greenland!”

Do you think Molinaro is the right choice for the role? Let’s debate it in the comments.

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