Envision Virgin Racing have signed their former reserve driver and rising star Nick Cassidy to partner Robin Frijns for the 2020-2021 FIA Formula E World Championship.
The New Zealander, who has won the so-called ‘triple crown’ of Japanese motorsport, with title success in Japanese Formula 3, Super GT and Super Formula will replace the outgoing Sam Bird on a multi-year deal.
Cassidy is excited at the opportunity to be racing in Formula E.
He said: “The team is one of the most successful on the grid, have a great set-up and facilities, and have continually impressed me since I joined them for the rookie test back in March. All drivers know the depth and quality of the field in Formula E is among the best in the world, so it is great to be adding my name to this roster.”
He added: “Racing in Japan has been an amazing experience and I’m fortunate that I’ve been able to achieve so much in a short space of time, but I feel it’s now time for the next challenge in my career and I’m very much looking forward to doing that with Envision Virgin Racing and Formula E.”
Cassidy set a new lap record around the Marrakesh Street Circuit during his maiden Formula E outing during a rookie test for Envision Virgin Racing.
The team’s Managing Director Sylvain Filippi said: “As a team, it is always important to look ahead to ensure our long-term success. In Nick we know we have a very ambitious, capable driver with raw talent, speed and race craft, as well as an impressive track record for his age.
“Moving to become a world championship next season, we know Formula E is going to be as competitive as ever, but from his short time with us we are confident – together with Robin Frijns – we have two drivers that can compete at the sharp end to win championships.”
The 2020-2021 Formula E World Championship will start at the Parque O’Higgins Circuit in Santiago on 16 January 2021.
The 2019-20 Formula E season will conclude with three double-headers taking place on 5,6, 8,9 and 12,13 August at the Berlin Templehof Airport.
