Citroen enters FE with Virgin Racing

Citroen will enter Formula E for its second season in a collaboration with Virgin Racing, it has announced.

The French firm will take advantage of a relaxing in the rules that will allow constructors' to develop their own powertrains by pairing its premier 'DS' brand with Virgin Racing.

To be known as DS Virgin Racing, the deal sees Citroen extend its footprint over motorsport having dominated the World Rally Championship for many years before more recently achieving similar success in the World Touring Car Championship.

"Our collaboration with the DS brand is not only a partnership between two amazing brands, but is a great opportunity to showcase our intent of winning FIA Formula E championships," said team principal Alex Tai. "In addition, it highlights our ambitions to be at the forefront of pioneering new technology in Formula E to aid the technology transition to road cars."

Virgin Racing has managed one race win in the first season of Formula E racing, but Virgin Group owner Sir Richard Branson is confident the input of a major manufacturer will see it challenging for the title from next season.

"I'm absolutely delighted that Virgin Racing has found a partner of the calibre of the DS brand. In season one, Formula E has delivered on its vision of creating exciting, fan-friendly racing spectacles where almost any team can win; now I look forward to building on this in season two and with our new partner DS, aiming to win multiple championships."