Heralded as one of New Zealand’s most complete and accomplished motorsport stars of recent time, Nick Cassidy admits his latest challenge of Formula E will be one of his most difficult trials in his young career.
At 25-years-old, Cassidy has achieved unprecedented success on the Asian racing circus, securing the coveted Japanese Triple Crown by clinching championships in Formula 3, Super FORMULA and Super GT.
As confirmed earlier today, Cassidy will embark on his latest challenge by agreeing to a multi-year deal with Envision Virgin Formula E team from next season.
Despite often being ridiculed and dismissed as not being a premier motorsport series, FIA Formula E has rapidly been enticing big manufacturer signings such as, Porsche Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Mercedes and Nissan, as well as a host of elite motorsport driver’s who have either enjoyed or narrowly missed out on stint in Formula 1.
It is a challenging series and one Cassidy admits he is excited to tackle once racing gets underway.
“Yes, it’s really exciting. I’ve followed Formula E since the beginning but never thought my career path would take me there,” said Cassidy. “I’ve achieved so much here in Japan and ticked so many boxes that it feels like it’s time for a new challenge and when the chance to test came up it was a great opportunity.
“Formula E is going to be a huge challenge and one not to be underestimated.
“I had such a great test with Envision Virgin Racing in Marrakesh but signing with them wasn’t just about pure performance; it was about how the team communicated and worked together, and with these guys I just had a very good feeling.”
Cassidy will partner Robin Frijns for the 2021 campaign, replacing the outgoing Sam Bird who has left the Silverstone-based squad having been with the team since its inception in 2014.
“I have huge respect for Sam,” he added. “He’s achieved great things in Formula E.
“My goal is to try and do a similar job. It’s a little daunting but I have confidence in myself. Robin and I have never raced before but he’s a great driver and a great reference to learn from.
“On paper, the Formula E grid is one of the toughest in motorsport. Everyone has results and experience behind them.”
The season will also mark Cassidy’s first race against Kiwi compatriot Mitch Evans in nine years when the duo competed against each other in the Toyota Racing Series.
Cassidy makes his racing return this weekend in the season-opening Super GT round from Fuji Speedway, the first in a heavily truncated eight-round series.
Meanwhile, the Formula E paddock have delayed their 2019/20 season resumption until August 5 where the series will conclude with six successive races across three different track layouts of the Berlin Tempelhof Airport circuit.