French driver Stephane Sarrazin has confirmed he will remain with the Venturi Formula E team for the 2016/17 season, with ambitions to push the Monegasque outfit towards the front of the grid.
Sarrazin is regarded as one of the most versatile drivers in motorsport, having competed in multiple disciplines over the course of his career.
He finished sixth place in the 2015/16 Drivers’ Championship and managed to score points in every round of the championship, a feat only matched by eventual champion Sebastien Buemi. In addition, Sarrazin took his and Venturi’s maiden podium at Long Beach earlier this year.
“We didn’t do the big step like the others this season – like the gearbox, having four gears when most teams have two, and being very heavy, 24kg over the weight limit.
“That’s massive. Next season it should be much better. I think, and I hope, we can catch the top teams.”
Despite competing in the gruelling Le Mans 24 hours, the Frenchman participated in a behind-closed-doors test for Venturi soon after. The new car, christened the VM200-FE-02, aims to rectify some of the problems with the four-speed single motor powertrain of its predecessor, and Stephane is confident that the new car will bring the team closer to the front of the field on a more regular basis.
“After Le Mans, I did a three-day test,” said Sarrazin.
“It was tough stuff, but it’s part of the game.
“I did three very good days, we are pushing a lot. It looks good, a big step.
“I was happy about the test but we need to work and to push. It’s not ready but it’s coming.”
While Venturi are yet to announce their second driver, there is speculation that Britain’s Mike Conway will continue to partner Sarrazin, having replaced 1997 Formula One World Champion Jacques Villeneuve from Buenos Aires.
