Sam Bird Joins Nissan
British driver Sam Bird is once again in the spotlight the experienced racer, whose most notable career achievements came with Russian teams, has unexpectedly opened a new chapter in his motorsport journey.
In the early 2010s, Bird made his mark in GP2 with Russian Time, finishing as vice-champion and helping the team secure the overall title. He later claimed the LMP2 World Endurance Championship crown with G-Drive Racing while simultaneously competing in the inaugural season of Formula E. Since then, he has become one of the series’ most seasoned drivers, completing 146 races, taking 12 victories, and achieving a respectable third place in the 2018 championship.
It seemed that Bird’s career might be nearing its end after McLaren announced its withdrawal from Formula E this year. However, it has now been confirmed that the 38-year-old has signed with the Nissan Formula E Team, where he will serve as test and reserve driver. The choice appears logical: Bird is already familiar with Nissan’s power units, which were used in McLaren’s Formula E cars, and he has long-standing working relationships with the Japanese manufacturer’s engineers.
Bird emphasizes that he has no intention of staying on the sidelines. He plans to support the team actively, contribute through simulator work, and assist the main drivers Oliver Rowland and Norman Nato.
The veteran Briton also makes it clear that retirement is not on his mind:“I still have goals to pursue, and I’m ready to step into the car at any moment if the team needs me.”
