The Andretti Formula E team has announced that Norman Nato will leave the squad after one season.
The news, which has been speculated for a number of months, comes after a difficult year for the Frenchman where he registered just one podium, in the second Shanghai race (where he also claimed fastest lap), along with seven other points finishes.
“A heartfelt thank you to Norman Nato for his time spent in our red and white machine this season,” the team said in a social media post announcing the news. “Norman has been a brilliant asset to the team over the last year, and we are grateful for his efforts and commitment. We would like to wish Norman all the best for the future.”
Confirmation of Nato’s departure comes after team principal Roger Griffiths played down talk of the Frenchman’s exit amid speculation that Nico Mueller could be taking the second seat at the team alongside 2022-23 champion Jake Dennis. Speaking to RACER at the season-ending London E-Prix last month, Griffiths stressed that “Norman is still under contract with us,” adding that Porsche had no influence over the team’s driver lineup, effectively shooting down links to Mueller.
Andretti is a Porsche customer team, and Mueller is expected to move to the manufacturer after testing with it earlier in the year. He subsequently left both Abt Cupra in Formula E, and vacated his Peugeot seat in the World Endurance Championship.
“While this season has had its challenges, Norman’s perseverance and positive attitude have been commendable,” said Griffiths. “He has been a dedicated member of our team, and we acknowledge all of the hard work he has put in.”
Nato is the latest in a flurry of exits recently announced in Formula E. Stoffel Vandoorne and Jake Hughes were announced as drivers for Maserati MSG Racing last week after departing DS Penske and NEOM McLaren respectively. They fill seats vacated by Maximilian Guenther and Jehan Daruvala, with the former expected to fill Vandoorne’s spot at DS Penske.