Venturi Formula E team signs Simona de Silvestro

Simona de Silvestro

The Venturi Formula E team has signed Simona de Silvestro as its official test driver for the 2018/19 season.

De Silvestro will work alongside Venturi's race drivers Felipe Massa and Edoardo Mortara.

She will make her first on-track appearance for Venturi when she drives in the official post-race test that will follow the season-opening Ad Diriyah ePrix.

"I'm delighted to make my return to Formula E as a test driver for the Venturi Formula E team and I'm grateful to Susie [Wolff, team principal] and Gildo [Pastor, Venturi president] for the opportunity," said de Silvestro.

"Since competing in season two, 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 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."