Stephan Sarrazin will make the switch to Techeetah for the remainder of the 2016/17 season.
The Frenchman replaces Esteban Gutierrez, who is leaving the series to race in IndyCar. Gutierrez, who only joined the FE grid in Mexico, is replacing injured Sebastien Bourdais in the American series. Clashes mean he won’t be able to commit to both series, leaving a seat open at Techeetah.
Though Techeetah only joined the series this season, Sarrazin will be the fourth driver to feature in the team’s line up. Before Gutierrez, Ma Qing Hua occupied the seat, with Jean-Eric Vergne remaining in place for the duration of the season so far.
Sarrazin will bring experience to the team, having raced in the series since 2014.
It’s a step up for Sarrazin. The Techeetah team runs the same powertrain as championship leader Renault e.dams and have been competitive at the top of the midfield so far this year. Sarrazin has been competing at the other end of the field, having only taken two points finishes this season.
Replacing Sarrazin at Ventrui will be Tom Dillmann.
Dillmann replaced Maro Engel at the team in Paris, and took points in his debut race when he finished eighth.
“A positive solution for all those involved,” said Venturi Team Principal Gildo Pallanca Pastor. “With his experience, Stephane will be embraced by Techeetah and at the same time the season will offer Tom the chance of gathering further important experience with Ventrui.”
Sarrazin will make his first appearance with Techeetah next weekend in Berlin.
Feature image credit: FIA Formula E Media.
