Norman Nato departs Nissan ahead of Formula E's Gen4 era

Credit: Hallam Voice/WHYOUT Images

\Nissan have announced Norman Nato's departure at the end of Season 12, as the team goes about setting up a new driver line-up for Formula E's upcoming Gen4 era.

Nato's position at Nissan remained largely under scrutiny all through the season, with difficult weekends compounding the pressure on the Frenchman. With youngster Victor Martins impressing in rookie appearances, Nato's performances were viewed more stringently by the Nissan top brass, ahead of the decision for the upcoming season.

"I'd like to say a big thank you to everyone at Nissan Formula E Team," Nato said, speaking on his departure from the team.

"I've had three great years with the team and we've shared lots of good moments together. Thank you to all the engineers, mechanics and everyone behind the scenes for all the hard work and support," he continued.

Nato's time at Nissan came in two separate stints. After a season on the sidelines, he returned to Formula E for the Gen3 era in 2023, as Nissan opted for a reset in their line-up, with Nato joining the team alongside rookie Sacha Fenestraz.

It proved to be a solid season, as the French driver scored a podium in Rome late in the year, defending his position with a broken front wing and bringing home the big result.

After a season with Andretti, Nato returned to Nissan in late 2024, joining Oliver Rowland and making a formidable duo. However, this return came with a difficult turn of form.

While Rowland took the title in Season 11, Nato's struggles saw him only manage a best finish of sixth, coming in Miami and Shanghai, with 21 points to his name.

Retained for another season, the French driver only marginally improved his tally, scoring 23 points with a best finish of fifth in Berlin.

"While I now move on to focus on another chapter in my career, I've really enjoyed my time in Formula E, both on the track and around the paddock, and I'm happy to have been part of this championship.

"It's goodbye for now, but I hope to see everyone again soon. I've had three great years with the team and we've shared lots of good moments together. Thank you to all the engineers, mechanics and everyone behind the scenes for all the hard work and support," Nato concluded, speaking on his time at Nissan.

The Frenchman also drives for the Hertz JOTA outfit in the World Endurance Championship, and is expected to focus on his commitments in endurance racing for the time being. However, Nato may return on the sidelines, in a reserve role, should an opportunity open up.

Prior to joining Nissan, Nato drove for the Rokit Venturi outfit, taking victory in Berlin back in Season 7, before serving as a reserve driver at Jaguar. He would step in for the injured Sam Bird, who hurt his hand in London and missed the season finale at Seoul.

Nato ended Season 12 with a strong recovery drive, climbing up from 19th on the grid to take home the final point in 10th, ensuring he left Formula E with some reward in a tough season.