Nissan Formula E Team has revealed its driver lineup for the 2023/24 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, featuring the return of experienced British driver Oliver Rowland and the continuation of young talent Sacha Fenestraz. This pairing aims to build on the team’s recent successes and contribute to a promising Formula E season ahead.
Oliver Rowland: A Familiar Face Returns
Oliver Rowland, hailing from Barnsley, is set to make a comeback to the Nissan team. He originally joined as a rookie in 2018, aligning his tenure with Nissan’s debut in the Formula E series. During Seasons 5 to 7, Rowland made an impact with five pole positions, five podium finishes, and a memorable victory in Berlin in 2020. Besides his Formula E accomplishments, Rowland’s racing career boasts a Formula Renault 3.5 Series championship in 2015 and a third-place finish in the 2017 FIA Formula 2 championship.
Sacha Fenestraz: Building on Promising Debut Season
Sacha Fenestraz, the Franco-Argentine driver, will continue his journey with the Nissan Formula E Team after an impressive rookie season. Despite his newcomer status, Fenestraz showcased exceptional adaptability to Formula E machinery. Notably, he secured pole position and set the fastest Formula E lap ever recorded at the Cape Town E-Prix, merely his fifth race with the team. Fenestraz consistently displayed competitive performance, including the fastest race lap in Monaco and frequent appearances at the front of the field.
Season 10: A Pivotal Year for Formula E
The upcoming Formula E season, known as Season 10, promises to be the largest yet, featuring 17 races, including a historic E-Prix in Tokyo on March 30, 2024, marking the first-ever race in Japan. Pre-season testing is scheduled in Valencia from October 23 to 27, with the championship commencing in Mexico City on January 13, 2024.
Team’s Perspective: Focused on Growth and Performance
Tommaso Volpe, Managing Director, and Team Principal of Nissan Formula E Team, expressed enthusiasm for the season ahead. He highlighted the strong partnership formed by Oliver Rowland and Sacha Fenestraz, emphasizing their potential to contribute significantly to the team’s future success. The team is committed to making continuous progress in the Formula E championship.
The team also took the opportunity to express gratitude to Norman Nato for his contributions and dedication during Season 9. Nato played a pivotal role in the team’s performance during the final races of the season, which significantly contributed to the team’s position in the standings. The team extended best wishes to Nato for his future endeavors.
Driver’s Perspective: Ready for the Challenge
Oliver Rowland shared his excitement about returning to Nissan, acknowledging the success the team has achieved over the past year. He expressed confidence in his partnership with Sacha Fenestraz and their collective potential to excel in the upcoming season.
Sacha Fenestraz, in his second year in the championship, conveyed his eagerness to embark on the season with renewed determination. He aims to build on the team’s impressive debut season together and looks forward to working closely with Rowland to contribute to the team’s progression.