In rather shocking news, it has been announced that Felipe Nasr will replace Maximilian Gunther for Geox Dragon for the Mexico E-Prix onwards.
Gunther started driving for Geox Dragon as a test and reserve driver in the 2017/18 season but made the leap to full time driver for the 2018/19 season, replacing Jerome D’Ambrosio who now drives for Mahindra Racing. Gunther had been progressing steadily in the season with finishing 15th in Ad-Diriyah, finishing 12th in Marrakesh and then qualified 7th in Santiago but unfortunately had to retire due to a technical issue, but was unable to secure any points for the team.
Jay Penske, team owner for Geox Dragon commended Gunther’s efforts within the team, stating that their “journey together shall continue beyond this programme. Maximilian is a remarkable young driver. Throughout his programme with us, he has tackled ever challenge with tenacity and has committed countless hours behind the scenes to improve our performance”. Gunther then later confirmed through social media that he will continue to remain with the team as their simulator, test and reserve driver for the remainder of the season.
Gunther also put out a statement, detailing the move, saying “it was clear from the beginning that I would share the season for Geox Dragon with another driver. I know that I will be racing for Geox Dragon again this season. Until then, I will continue to do the simulator work and be a test and replacement driver for the team. I had a lot of fun in Santiago de Chile, where I had a great race after my super qualifying until my retirement and I am looking forward to returning to the Penske EV-3 soon”.
For Felipe Nasr, this move is a great progression and it will be great to see the Brazilian driving once again. Nasr previously raced with Sauber in Formula 1 and may be known more recently for his time in Brazilian Stock Car Racing. Nasr will take the wheel for the Mexico E-Prix weekend, adapting the car No. 6. Penske also commented on Nasr and his achievements in the world of motorsport. “He would be an invaluable asset to the evolving Geox organisation. We Would be thrilled to add a driver of his calibre to out team” Penske announced.
We will have to keep our eyes peeled on this change to see how things develop within the Geox Dragon team throughout this season. The next race of Formula E is the 2019 CBMM Niobium Mexico City E-Prix on Saturday February 16th so make sure to check back at Overtake Motorsport for all the latest action and results.
Feature Image Credit: ABB FIA Formula E Website
