Envision set for Formula E driver change as key departure confirmed

Envision Racing has confirmed that Robin Frijns will depart the Formula E squad, with a new signing to be announced. 

The announcement was made on Thursday morning, bringing to an end a six-year relationship. Frijns first joined Envision at the start of the Gen2 era in Season 5, before joining ABT Cupra four years later for the beginning of Gen3

After one campaign with the German outfit, Frijns returned to Envision for Season 10, but will now leave the team following the conclusion of Season 11. 

It means a new driver will partner Sebastien Buemi for Season 12, with RacingNews365 having revealed earlier this year that the Season 2 champion will remain in his seat.

Jake Hughes and Stoffel Vandoorne are two drivers known to have held conversations with Envision, due to both set to lose their seats from the outfit known last season as Maserati.

As for Frijns, it was an exit which felt expected, unfortunately. The Dutchman endured a difficult campaign which saw him only score 23 points, leaving him 19th in the standings. 

Whilst the points total paints a bad picture, the 34-year-old suffered from extraordinary bad luck, rather than poor performances on his behalf. 

It is a goodbye to one of FE's most experienced drivers, who joined the FE grid back in Season 2 with Andretti and became a two-time race winner in the series.

"Throughout Robin's six seasons with Envision Racing, he has delivered excellent results and cracking drives, and we have thoroughly enjoyed working with such a talented driver," said Envision team principal, Sylvain Filippi.

"His two victories and numerous podiums stand-out, but also his raw speed and ability to deliver a lap when it mattered. He’s been a fierce competitor and a valued part of our team.

"Formula E is an ever-evolving championship, and for us, the time has come for an exciting new change. We look forward to announcing our Season 12 line-up shortly."