Jaguar TCS Racing Announces Noda and Aron for Madrid Rookie Test
Madrid, Spain – March 12, 2026 – Jaguar TCS Racing will field Japanese racer Juju Noda and American driver Bryce Aron during the upcoming Rookie Test at the CUPRA Raval Madrid E-Prix. Noda, already a rising star in single-seater racing, made history in 2024 as the first Japanese woman to compete in Super Formula. Aron, 22, currently competes in the Indy NXT series, with two podium finishes to his name. The test provides both drivers with a valuable opportunity to develop their skills and allows Jaguar TCS Racing to evaluate emerging international talent. Team Principal Ian James emphasized the team’s recent strong performance and excitement for the Madrid race, which will also mark António’s 150th Championship start. Noda previously tested with Jaguar TCS Racing in Valencia last year, and both drivers expressed their enthusiasm for the opportunity. The Madrid E-Prix is scheduled for Saturday, March 21st.
Jaguar TCS Racing to Field Rising Stars Noda and Aron in Madrid Rookie Test
Jaguar TCS Racing is set to evaluate two promising young talents, Juju Noda and Bryce Aron, during the upcoming Rookie Test in Madrid. This strategic move underscores the team’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of Formula E drivers and identifying potential future stars.
Juju Noda: A Trailblazer in Motorsport
Juju Noda, a 20-year-old hailing from Japan, brings a wealth of experience from various racing disciplines. She began karting at the remarkably young age of three, demonstrating an early passion for motorsport. By nine years old, Noda was already testing single-seater race cars on Japanese circuits, quickly progressing through the ranks.
Notably, in 2024, Noda made history as the first Japanese woman to compete in Super Formula, Japan’s premier single-seater championship, racing for TGM Grand Prix. This achievement highlights her exceptional skill and determination, breaking barriers for female racers in a traditionally male-dominated sport. The Madrid Rookie Test isn’t Noda’s first experience with the GEN3 Evo car, having previously participated in the 2025 Women’s Test in Valencia.
Did you know? Juju Noda’s father, Hideki Noda, is a former Formula 1 driver, showcasing a strong family legacy in motorsport.
Bryce Aron: An American Rising Star
Joining Noda in the Jaguar garage is Bryce Aron, a 22-year-old American racer making his debut in Formula E. Currently competing in his third season in the Indy NXT series, Aron has consistently demonstrated his potential with two podium finishes and numerous top-ten results. This experience in a competitive feeder series positions him well for the challenges of Formula E.
Jaguar TCS Racing’s Development Focus
The Rookie Test provides a crucial opportunity for both Noda and Aron to gain valuable experience in the GEN3 Evo car and familiarize themselves with the unique demands of Formula E racing. For Jaguar TCS Racing, it’s a chance to assess emerging international talent and potentially identify future team members.
Ian James, Team Principal of Jaguar TCS Racing, emphasized the team’s dedication to supporting young drivers. He stated the team is determined to build on recent successes, with Madrid potentially being a particularly exciting moment, marking António Félix da Costa’s 150th start in the Championship.
Schedule for the 2026 CUPRA Raval Madrid E-Prix
The Madrid E-Prix, a first-time event for Formula E, promises an action-packed race weekend at the Circuito del Jarama. Here’s a breakdown of the schedule:
- Free Practice 1: Friday, March 20, 16:30 local / 15:30 UTC
- Free Practice 2: Saturday, March 21, 08:30 local / 07:30 UTC
- Qualifying: Saturday, March 21, 10:40 local / 09:40 UTC
- Race: Saturday, March 21, 15:05 local / 14:05 UTC
The Future of Driver Development in Formula E
Formula E’s commitment to nurturing young talent is evident through initiatives like the Rookie Test. This approach not only provides opportunities for aspiring drivers but also ensures a continuous influx of fresh perspectives and competitive spirit into the championship. Similar programs in other motorsport series, such as the Red Bull Junior Team in Formula 1, have proven successful in identifying and developing world-class drivers.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on driver performance during the Rookie Test – it often serves as a strong indicator of future potential in Formula E.
FAQ
- Who is Juju Noda? Juju Noda is a 20-year-old Japanese racing driver who made history as the first Japanese woman to race in Super Formula.
- Who is Bryce Aron? Bryce Aron is a 22-year-old American racer currently competing in the Indy NXT series.
- What is the purpose of the Rookie Test? The Rookie Test allows Jaguar TCS Racing to evaluate emerging talent and provides young drivers with valuable experience in the GEN3 Evo car.
- Where will the Madrid E-Prix take place? The Madrid E-Prix will be held at the Circuito del Jarama.
Don’t miss the action from the 2026 CUPRA Raval Madrid E-Prix! Follow live timing and coverage on the official Formula E website, and app.
What are your predictions for Noda and Aron’s performance in the Rookie Test? Share your thoughts in the comments below!