Nissan confirm Formula E driver reunion after shock exit

Nissan has confirmed the shock exit of Formula E driver Sacha Fenestraz, with his contract having been terminated by the Japanese manufacturer. 

Former Nissan driver Norman Nato has been signed as his replacement, after the Frenchman was not offered a new contract by Andretti. 

Fenestraz did have a multi-year deal which covered the upcoming FE season, although a disappointing 2023/24 campaign has resulted in swift action by Nissan. 

His contract has been terminated by Nissan after failing to show enough progress in his second season, with team-mate Oliver Rowland having been a title contender. 

Fenestraz finished 17th in the drivers' championship on 26 points, 130 fewer than Rowland. 

The young driver is recognised as being exceptionally fast, something he demonstrated in his rookie campaign last year. 

Unfortunately, the progression was not there, although his campaign was ridiculed by bad luck. Nato rejoins Nissan after being replaced by Oliver Rowland at the end of Season 9, and actually finds himself alongside the Briton next season. 

“I’m really happy to be back with the team," said Nato. "We ended Season 9 strongly together and I’m looking to pick up where we left off. We will be aiming to perform straight away, so the fact I know the car and the team will be helpful. 

"Oli proved how quick he is last season, we’ve been battling on track since Formula Renault 2.0 but never been teammates! I’m sure we will get along well and hopefully we can share some podiums together. 

"It will be interesting to see how the car has improved, and the goal is clear. We want to win races and championships. 

"Finally, I wish Sacha all the best, he’s a top guy and it’s never easy to replace someone you previously partnered with. I’m sure we will be racing each other again very soon.”

Nissan excitement despite difficult 'goodbye'

Nissan were very strong last season and challenged for the lead places in the teams' championship, with fourth having been claimed. 

The Japanese manufacturer demonstrated the most improvement from Season 9 to Season 10, and is reportedly enjoying a very positive pre-season ahead of the introduction of the Gen3 EVO. 

Despite the progress being made with its new car, making a late change to its driver line-up has not been ideal for Nissan. 

Nato brings more experience to the team and is known very well by the company, with deciding that the Frenchman would replace Fenestraz having been a tough decision, according to team principal Tommaso Volpe. 

“We’re excited for Season 11 after a very good performance in the last campaign," said Volpe. "We’ve refreshed our driver line-up by welcoming back Norman, who will bring his wealth of experience and performance. 

"Norman knows the team well and showed his talent when he was previously with us. His feedback and insight are valuable and he has a track record of developing cars, so we are delighted to see him return. 

"Oli had a fantastic Season 10, and we’re confident he can continue at that level. We believe that Norman and Oli will form a strong pairing, both are team players and will do their best to help us improve throughout the upcoming year.

“At the same time and while it hasn't been an easy decision, we have to say goodbye to Sacha. He has been a fundamental part of the establishment and development of Nissan Formula E Team, and we thank him for his hard work and his ever positive attitude. 

"We're proud to have grown together with him, and wish him all the best for his future career."