Nato named Venturi’s Formula E reserve driver for 2018/19

Norman Nato has been announced as Venturi’s reserve driver for the 2018/19 Formula E season.

The Frenchman, who finished as runner-up in the 2018 European Le Mans Series with the Racing Engineering LMP2 squad, joins race drivers Felipe Massa, Edoardo Mortara and development driver Simona De Silvestro in the Monaco-based outfit’s season five line-up.

Nato will carry out simulator work throughout the season and is set to make his official Formula E debut for Venturi during the rookie test that follows the Marrakesh E-Prix in January.

“Formula E has quickly established itself as a leading race series with many of the big constructors committing to participating,” Nato said.

“The opportunity to drive for Gildo Pastor and Susie Wolff at this key time in the history of the team and the championship is a privilege I’m fully aware of.

“The job that’s been entrusted to me is very important, as a Formula E meeting takes places over just one day, the team has to be prepared and in the best possible shape to make the most of the opportunities available in a short timeframe.

“Driving Formula E cars demands a lot of finesse and technique. I’ll be putting all of my energy into learning our new car and fine-tuning my driving so that we can perfect our race day performance and strategy.”

Nato previously contested the Formula 2 Championship and finished a career-best fifth place with Racing Engineering in 2016 under the series’ former GP2 guise. He claimed three wins across three full campaigns before making the switch to sportscars in 2018.

“Norman is a fantastic addition to the team. He’s settling in well as he takes on an important role in the simulator - a critical element for any Formula E team,” added Venturi team principal Susie Wolff.

“His experience gained over a variety of disciplines will be an asset to the team. As reserve driver, he will be attending some races, and I’m looking forward to seeing what he can do with the car in Marrakesh.”