Ellis Spiezia becomes first international NXT Gen Cup driver

American racer Ellis Spiezia will join the 2023 NXT Gen Cup as the first international driver of the world's first 100% electric junior touring car cup.

"Joining the NXT Gen Cup in 2023 is the perfect way for me to continue my career as an electric racing driver. Being at the forefront of new junior series is exciting and I hope I can inspire more young drivers to race electric," said Ellis Spiezia.

The 16-year-old American moved to Europe in 2020 to prioritize electric motorsport, racing in four competitive electric karting series. His transition to car racing has included Formula 4, Ford Fiesta and electric formula racing.

"Being the first international driver to join the series is an honor. Participating in the inaugural championship will be another step toward the top level of electric Motorsport, whether it’s Formula E, ETCR, DTM electric or other series still in development," said Ellis Spiezia.

Ellis Spiezia is present at Hockenheim during the ADAC GT Masters season finale this weekend in Germany together with NXT Gen Cup and will get a first taste of the fully electric LRT NXT1 race car later this year.

"I visited the team’s workshop in Sweden in August and got my first look at the car. It’s clear the team has put a lot of attention to detail from a driver’s perspective and is maximizing the available technology to make it the best experience possible for young racers," said said Ellis Spiezia.

NXT Gen Cup will start in 2023 and run alongside the all-electric STCC, featuring a big grid of LRT NXT1 race cars which are based on the electric MINI Cooper SE road car - explore the cup further here.