Shocking Formula E shake-up: Norman Nato joins Andretti amidst major team swaps!
In a surprising turn of events for the world of Formula E racing, Norman Nato is set to replace Andre Lotterer at the Andretti Global Formula E team for the next season. This move is just one of several in the championship’s ongoing game of musical chairs.
Nato, a French racer, recently left the Nissan team after a single season that culminated with a second-place finish in Rome. He’s being replaced by Oliver Rowland, the former Mahindra driver, who’s making a comeback to his former team, now known in its Nissan e.dams avatar. Rowland is set to partner with Sacha Fenestraz.
The vacancy at the Andretti team arose due to Lotterer’s decision to focus exclusively on his World Endurance Championship journey with Porsche. This decision, disclosed just last week, paved the way for a new opportunity at Michael Andretti’s Porsche customer squad. The squad recently celebrated its monumental victory with Jake Dennis securing the first title under FE’s Gen3 regulations.
Having claimed a solitary Formula E victory with what’s now known as the Maserati MSG team (formerly Venturi Racing) in Berlin 2021, Nato is on his way to joining his fourth distinct FE team. He will also be driving with his fourth distinct powertrain. He showcased his prowess in 2022 in Seoul, racing for Jaguar alongside the reigning world champion, Dennis. A seasoned player, 31-year-old Nato, having secured the 10th position in the 2022-23 standings, expressed his excitement, stating, “I am thrilled to be a part of the Andretti Formula E family for Season 10. The opportunity to drive a winning-capable car is exhilarating, and I eagerly anticipate contributing to the team’s illustrious history.”
In recent news, Andretti Global underwent a name change from its longstanding Andretti Autosport, reflecting its aspiration to join the Formula 1 grid, collaborating with General Motors. Michael Andretti, the CEO and chairman, voiced his optimism regarding the team’s direction and future. Welcoming Nato, he remarked, “Norman’s addition to our team underscores our collective passion for victory. With his commendable track record this season, he has undoubtedly made a mark. As we ride high on Jake’s phenomenal championship win this year, our ambition only grows.”
Before diving into Formula E, Nato showcased his racing mettle in the WEC with the Rebellion LMP1 team during the 2019-20 season. He celebrated victories at prominent circuits, including Shanghai and the Circuit of the Americas.
