Formula E: Cassidy to Make FE Debut with Virgin in Season 7

Japanese motorsport legend Nick Cassidy will replace Jaguar-bound Sam Bird at Envision Virgin Racing for the 2020/21 Formula E season.

The 25 year-old Kiwi is one of the fastest drivers who hasn’t driven in Formula 1, and it is widely agreed that Cassidy is more than worthy of a top F1 drive. With F1 options not opening, he has instead focused his career in Japan, with the SuperFormula single-seater series and the Super GT series being his areas of big success.

In SuperFormula, he came 2nd in just his 2nd season in 2018, before taking the title in 2019. In Super GT, he won the 2017 title with Lexus, before finishing runner up the next to years.

Cassidy driving for Vantelin Team TOM'S in SuperFormula 2019

He then served as Virgin’s Test Driver in Formula E for Season 6, setting the lap record at Marrakesh during the rookie test, faster than any lap set during the Formula E race event.

Cassidy has also been approached by various different Formula E teams to race in Season 7, and was even offered a drive with Mahindra to replace Pascal Wehrlein for the remainder of Season 6, however he turned this deal down to pursue a drive with Virgin.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for me to be joining Formula E and Envision Virgin Racing from next season,” said Cassidy. “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.

“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.”

Envision Virgin managing director Sylvain Filippi added, “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.

“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.”

Cassidy could still compete in Japan beyond 2020, with talks between him and Toyota ongoing about continuing their partnership. If he does continue racing in Japan, he is expected to prioritise his Formula E commitments should there be clashing rounds.