1997 Formula 1 World Champion Jacques Villeneuve will race in the second season of the FIA Formula E Championship after being announced as Stephane Sarrazin’s team-mate at Venturi Grand Prix.
The Canadian replaces Nick Heidfeld in the team, and joins Venturi on the back of a one-day test with the team last week at the Paul Ricard circuit in the south of France.
“It had been 10 years since I had driven on that kind of track with a single-seater, but it’s like riding a bike, you never forget,” revealed Villeneuve.
“It was real happiness. There was a very good ambiance with the Venturi team and one of the engineers with Venturi happens to be a guy I worked with early in my career. That was great. I was very excited and everything went well.
“Last season each time I met drivers from Formula-E they were saying it is really a very interesting championship.
“This is the first time in several years that I will participate in a full championship. I am excited because the atmosphere while working alongside the Venturi team is great and that has a very big influence. Also I know Stéphane Sarrazin well, we trust each other “
Sarrazin remains in the team for a second season and will be looking for better results in year two after losing a race victory a Battersea Park for using too much energy in holding off Briton Sam Bird, but felt the inaugural season was one of immense progression.
“My wish was to continue with Venturi, so I’m very happy with this situation,” revealed Sarrazin. “We made tremendous progress throughout the first season.
“Our experience there must be put to good use in this new championship season. We have to demonstrate our capabilities.”
