The ABT Lola Formula E team, which will enter the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship from Season 11, has confirmed Lucas di Grassi as its first driver. The experienced Brazilian racer will continue his long-standing partnership with ABT as the team begins a new chapter, with the season starting in São Paulo in December.
Di Grassi and ABT have extended their ten-year cooperation, embarking on this fresh endeavour together with Lola Cars. From next season, ABT will collaborate with Lola, using a powertrain developed with Yamaha Motor Company. This new alliance brings a wealth of motorsport heritage and technical expertise to the Formula E grid.
Lucas di Grassi, who holds the record for the most podium finishes in the championship with 47, expressed his excitement about the continued partnership.
“ABT is my family. I have experienced the best moments of my career there and have full confidence in the people who work hard every day to achieve success – so I am happy that we are also tackling the new challenges together,” said Di Grassi.
Mark Preston, Motorsport Director of Lola Cars, underscored the importance of having Di Grassi on the team. He stated, “Having a driver with such experience, skill, and dedication as Lucas is a huge boost as a new manufacturer entering the series. His knowledge and feedback during testing have already proven invaluable, and we look forward to hitting the track together in Season 11.”
ABT CEO Thomas Biermaier emphasised the value of continuity and experience. “We are delighted to continue our journey in Formula E with Lucas. Not only is he a great ambassador for our team and the entire championship, but like all of us, he is eager and fully motivated to finally be successful again,” said Biermaier.
“This makes it all the more important for us to have the most experienced driver at our side in Lucas, in addition to the permanent members of the team.”
Di Grassi’s extensive experience in Formula E, having competed in 131 races—more than any other driver—makes him a crucial asset for the team. He has already played a vital role in the development of the new GEN3 EVO race car, driving its shakedown in Great Britain in mid-June.
“It’s a very exciting project with people who know what it takes to be successful in Formula E, alongside two renowned brands in Lola and Yamaha,” continued Di Grassi.
“We have a few busy weeks ahead of us. Together we will do everything we can to be successful as soon as possible.”
The new arrangement will see ABT utilise its experience to manage the race team operations, with Lola focusing on powertrain development in partnership with Yamaha. This collaboration is part of a wider venture between ABT and Lola to explore sustainable motorsport solutions, including electrification, hydrogen, and sustainable fuels and materials.
As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the decision on who will join Di Grassi in the second cockpit is yet to be announced. The team will then head to Valencia, Spain, for the official pre-season test in early November.
