Venturi Formula E Team has hired Simona de Silvestro as its test driver for the 2018/19 FIA Formula E Championship.
De Silvestro makes her return to the all-electric series as a test driver for Monaco-based Venturi outfit which is headed by Susie Wolff and has Felipe Massa and Edoardo Mortara in their driver line-up for the 2018/19 season.
“I’m delighted to make my return to Formula E as a test driver for VENTURI Formula E Team and I’m grateful to Susie and Gildo for the opportunity,” she said. “Since competing in Season 2, I’ve kept a close eye on the Formula E championship and followed its development with interest.
“The arrival of the new Gen2 car represents a huge milestone for the series and I am very happy to be back in an active role at this exciting and important time. I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of the Gen2 and to putting my experience to good use helping VENTURI Formula E Team with track testing and simulator work.
“The next 12 months will be really busy for me with both Formula E and my Australian Supercars commitments but I’m ready for the challenge and it’s a joy to be working with such a well connected and committed team as VENTURI.”
The Swiss racer made her Formula E debut in the inaugural season in 2014/15 for Andretti after which she earned a full-time seat with the American outfit in the 2015/16 season. She will combine her Formula E duty with racing in the Australia’s Supercars series.
Venturi’s president Gildo Pastor said: “Simona DE SILVESTRO is a safe bet in motorsport. I’m convinced she’ll make a big contribution to VENTURI Formula E Team. Her determination and experience are real assets for us.
“I’m delighted to see the team growing a little more every day. We have every chance of starting this new season in the best possible way.” Team principal Wolff added: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming Simona on board, in her role as test driver she has an important part to play in our race preparations.
“Her background and experience will stand her in great stead in her new role and I know she will be a huge asset. Simona is a real team player and a driver I was keen to work with.
“She has a very positive attitude and no-nonsense approach to her work which will fit in well with the team.” De Silvestro will play an active role to help the team prepare for the race weekends.
Following the opening round in Saudi Arabia on December 15, de Silvestro will make her Gen2 and also track debut for Venturi on December 16 in the first of the in-season test at the same venue.
